A recent study by the Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan American think tank, has shed new light on the English language acquisition of immigrants & their children. The research, part of a broader examination of how Hispanic Americans get their news, offers valuable insights into immigrants’ attitudes toward their L2.
Key Findings:
- Only 2% of U.S.-born Latinos get most news from Spanish-language media
- 26% of foreign-born Latinos in the U.S. primarily consume English-language media
- 33% of foreign-born Latinos get news equally from Spanish & English media
The study, published this year, builds upon previous research, including work by the National Academy of Sciences & its study The New Americans. It aligns with global trends identified in a Pearson survey on English language importance worldwide.
Global Perspective:
- The Pearson survey, conducted in collaboration with PSB Insights, reveals:
- 98% of Saudis see English as crucial for work
- 94% of Brazilians & 91% of Italians agree
- Gen Z globally believes English proficiency could boost earnings by 60-100%
Long-Term Trends:
- 97% of immigrants in the U.S. for 30+ years report speaking English well (National Academy of Sciences)
- 92% of refugees speak English a decade after arrival (National Foundation for American Policy)
- Spanish-speaking ability typically disappears by the 3rd generation in immigrant families (UC Irvine & Princeton University study)
These findings challenge the common misconception that immigrants & their children struggle to learn English, highlighting instead a rapid & effective acquisition process.
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