The impact of early language exposure on cognitive flexibility in Yoruba–English bilinguals
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Background of the Study
Early language exposure is a critical determinant of cognitive development, particularly in bilingual individuals. Yoruba–English bilinguals, exposed to two linguistically and culturally diverse systems from an early age, often demonstrate enhanced cognitive flexibility—the ability to switch between tasks and adapt to novel situations. Research indicates that bilingual children develop stronger executive functions, including improved attentional control and problem-solving skills, due to the constant management of dual language systems (Olawale, 2023). In Nigeria, early exposure to both Yoruba and English not only facilitates linguistic proficiency but also promotes neural plasticity that underlies cognitive agility. This dual-language environment encourages learners to efficiently navigate between differing grammatical structures, cultural contexts, and communication styles, thereby enhancing overall cognitive flexibility. This study investigates how early language exposure influences cognitive flexibility among Yoruba–English bilinguals through a combination of behavioral assessments and neuroimaging techniques. The findings are expected to shed light on the neural and cognitive benefits of bilingual education, informing curricula that leverage bilingualism for improved cognitive outcomes (Babatunde, 2024; Adebayo, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Although bilingualism is associated with enhanced cognitive flexibility, the specific impact of early language exposure on this cognitive domain among Yoruba–English bilinguals remains underexplored. Existing studies often generalize findings from diverse contexts without addressing the unique linguistic environment of Nigeria, where cultural factors and language practices vary significantly from Western settings. The lack of targeted research in this area limits the ability to design educational programs that harness the cognitive advantages of early bilingual exposure. Consequently, there is a need to systematically investigate how early exposure to Yoruba and English affects cognitive flexibility, which could inform more effective bilingual education strategies (Olawale, 2023; Babatunde, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
1. To examine the relationship between early language exposure and cognitive flexibility in Yoruba–English bilinguals.
2. To assess the impact of bilingualism on executive functions such as task switching and problem solving.
3. To recommend educational strategies that maximize the cognitive benefits of early bilingual exposure.
Research Questions:
1. How does early exposure to Yoruba and English influence cognitive flexibility?
2. What executive functions are most enhanced by early bilingual exposure?
3. How can educational interventions be optimized to harness these cognitive benefits?
Significance of the Study :
This study is significant as it explores the impact of early language exposure on cognitive flexibility among Yoruba–English bilinguals, offering insights that can improve educational practices and cognitive training programs. The findings will support curriculum design that leverages bilingualism to foster enhanced cognitive development, benefiting educators, learners, and policymakers (Olawale, 2023; Adebayo, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to examining the impact of early language exposure on cognitive flexibility in Yoruba–English bilinguals using behavioral and neuroimaging assessments.
Definitions of Terms:
• Early Language Exposure: Introduction to language(s) during early childhood.
• Cognitive Flexibility: The ability to adapt thinking and behavior to new and unexpected conditions.
• Bilingualism: Proficiency in two languages.
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