Princeton, New Jersey (October 28, 2011) – A recent Berlitz Corporation survey shows that most parents think foreign languages will be a crucial element in their children’s future success.
The survey, which was conducted in August this year (2011), polled over 9,000 parents in nine countries -Japan, Germany, USA, Mexico, China, Brazil, France, Poland and Italy. The aim of the research was to find out how parents of children between the ages of 4 and 17 perceive the importance of foreign language learning.
The key findings show that almost 90% expressed interest in foreign language learning for their children outside of regular school hours. Three quarters of parents currently spend money on foreign language programs for their children, with a total of 69% of children having previous language learning experience. Countries with recent strong economic growth, such as China, Mexico and Brazil, showed especially high interest in foreign language learning. The lowest interest was in developed countries such as USA, Japan, France and Germany.
In all nine countries English is seen as the most important language for children to learn, with French and Spanish following some way behind. Parents are mostly interested in programs that mix ‘proven’ formal techniques with innovative and fun learning experiences. The survey also found regional differences in how the decision to take part in foreign language programs was made. Asian and Latin American parents are usually the sole decision makers, whereas parents in western countries (Europe and USA) tend to make the decision with their children.
86% of parents surveyed placed considerable importance on their children learning about other cultures or traditions from teachers native to those cultures. “In an ever-globalizing world, parents are becoming more serious about a global education for their children. They give more priority not only to foreign language learning but also to cross-cultural and experiential learning to support their children’s future global success,” says Jun Usaka, Global Leader of Kids & Teens at Berlitz Corporation.
The survey found that Berlitz is widely viewed as one of the market leaders in this language sector, with a reputation for high quality and efficient methodology. Indeed, Berlitz has had a Kids & Teens department, dedicated to delivering age and level specific programs for nearly 30 years. The Berlitz Kids & Teens programs are popular largely because they are globally-focused, and consistent throughout the world. The Berlitz Kids & Teens programs currently offered are:
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Mimi & Me: for young children ages 4 to 7
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English Beat: for children ages 8 to 11
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Time Zones: for teenagers ages 12 -16
Along with Berlitz Kids & Teens Camps, study abroad courses, and from 2012 International Camps, (summer and winter camps in which children from all over the world will be mixed together) these create a unique opportunity for children to feel part of a global community. Berlitz has positioned itself as a global education company, providing a full range of language services and cross-cultural and global leadership training.
About Berlitz Corporation
With more than 550 locations in over 70 countries, Berlitz Corporation has long been established as the world’s premier provider of language training and cross-cultural services. Today Berlitz is a global leadership training and education company with a comprehensive portfolio which adds communications skills development, global leadership training and customized dynamic solutions for cultural competency, available via multiple delivery platforms. For more information on Berlitz programs and services, visit www.berlitz.com.
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Contact:
Tadashi Okamura
Director of Global PR
Tel: +81 03-5412-6767
Email: tadashi.okamura@jp.berlitz.com