THE CONCEPTS AND COGNITIVE IMPLICATIONS OF BILINGUALISM: A COMPREHENSIVE NARRATIVE REVIEW ON TYPES, BENEFITS, CHALLENGES, AND EDUCATIONAL APPLICATIONS

Abstract

This narrative review explores the multifaceted concept of bilingualism, encompassing its various forms, cognitive and social advantages, and potential drawbacks. Drawing on empirical and theoretical research, the review highlights how bilingualism enhances executive function, metalinguistic awareness, and language acquisition skills while also discussing the slower speech pace sometimes observed in bilinguals compared to monolinguals. Types of bilingualism and bilingual education models are examined to elucidate their implications for language instruction and cognitive development. The review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of bilingualism’s impact on cognition, society, and culture, emphasizing its relevance in an increasingly multilingual world