Impact of Language Acquisition on Cognitive Development and Emotional Intelligence in University Students

Abstract

This study examines the impact of language acquisition on cognitive development and emotional intelligence in university students. The research aims to explore how learning a new language influences students' cognitive abilities, such as memory, problem-solving, and critical thinking, as well as their emotional intelligence (EI), including empathy, emotional regulation, and interpersonal communication. The key hypotheses include: (1) language acquisition positively affects cognitive development, and (2) language learning enhances emotional intelligence in university students. The population for this study consists of undergraduate students from various disciplines, with a sample size of 300 students selected through stratified random sampling. A cross-sectional study design is employed, with the research being quantitative in nature. Data collection is conducted through a structured questionnaire, which includes validated scales for assessing cognitive development and emotional intelligence. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods are applied to analyze the data, using SPSS software for correlation and regression analysis. The results are expected to provide insights into how language acquisition contributes to both intellectual and emotional growth in university students, with potential implications for educational policies and curriculum design. This study emphasizes the significance of language learning as a holistic developmental tool in higher education contexts.