Can Teaching Through Languages Improve Overall Outcomes?
A recent longitudinal study by Judith Woodfield, an advisory group member of Learning Through Languages UK at Aston University, highlights the effectiveness of Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) in the UK. CLIL is a bilingual teaching method where subjects are taught in a foreign language. Based on her experiences in three English schools, Woodfield's study indicates that CLIL enhances student engagement, language proficiency, and academic performance across various subjects. The study found that students in CLIL programs showed improved attainment in both language and other academic subjects. This was particularly notable in settings where students faced challenges, such as those with
special educational needs or those from disadvantaged backgrounds. CLIL was also associated with closing the disadvantage gap and increasing inclusivity. The research suggests that integrating CLIL into the curriculum can significantly improve school performance and outcomes, mainly when it's a core part of the curriculum from key stage 3 onwards. The study recommends further exploration of CLIL as a potential strategy for improving language uptake and reducing educational disparities
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