A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Cognitive Correlates of Bilingualism

2010/06/01 by Olusola Adesope, Tracy Lavin, Terri Ann Thompson +1 · 3 citations
Neuroscience · Psychology · #Neurobiology of Language and Bilingualism #Reading and Literacy Development #Language Development and Disorders

paper · doi:10.3102/0034654310368803

openalex publication_date 2010/06/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/18

Abstract

A number of studies have documented the cognitive outcomes associated with bilingualism. To gain a clear understanding of the extent and diversity of these cognitive outcomes, the authors conducted a meta-analysis of studies that examined the cognitive correlates of bilingualism. Data from 63 studies (involving 6,022 participants) were extracted and analyzed following established protocols and procedures for conducting systematic reviews and guidelines for meta-analysis. Results indicate that bilingualism is reliably associated with several cognitive outcomes, including increased attentional control, working memory, metalinguistic awareness, and abstract and symbolic representation skills. Overall mean effect sizes varied from small to large, depending on the cognitive outcomes measured, and were moderated by methodological features of the studies.

Citations

• Introduction to Meta‐Analysis
• The file drawer problem and tolerance for null results.
• Critical period effects in second language learning: The influence of maturational state on the acquisition of English as a second language
• Quantifying heterogeneity in a meta‐analysis
• Cognitive Load Theory and Complex Learning: Recent Developments and Future Directions
• Bilingualism, Aging, and Cognitive Control: Evidence From the Simon Task.

Cited by

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• What Does a Culturally Sustaining Learning Climate Look Like?
• Metalinguistics [wikipedia]