Cognition and Young Learners’ Language Development

Abstract

Because young language learners (YLLs) are in the midst of cognitive development while they are developing their languages, it is important for educators of YLLs to understand children’s cognitive abilities in relation to their linguistic development in order to develop appropriate pedagogy for them. This chapter offers a current understanding of major cognitive abilities that are associated with YLL’s language learning. After sketching main theoretical approaches in general cognitive development, the chapter discusses major research findings concerning the potential influence of bilingualism in cognition/metacognition in the three most studied domains; namely, executive function, theory of mind, and metalinguistic awareness. The chapter also covers emerging neuropsycholinguistic research as well as studies concerning greater use of digital technology by children and its potential impact on cognition. The chapter pays special attention to the kinds of measurements that researchers have used to capture YLLs’ cognitive abilities, and the roles of linguistic inputs and other environmental factors (e.g., socioeconomic status). Although research indicates that there is certainly an association between bilingualism and cognition, there are also substantial variabilities in that association across studies. The underlying mechanisms explaining the nature of the relationships and developmental trajectories are not totally clear. The chapter concludes with suggestions for future research.