What question did this study set out to answer?

This meta-analysis investigates the effectiveness of multilingual versus monolingual approaches in second language teaching and their impact on learning outcomes.

July 27, 2026Language Teaching Research

The Effectiveness of Multilingual Versus Monolingual Approaches to L2 Teaching and Learning: A Meta-Analysis of Learning Outcomes

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Authors

MZMeixiu ZhangShihezi University ABAmanda BrownCity, University of London

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Implication

Meta-analysis reveals multilingual approaches enhance L2 learning outcomes, suggesting teaching strategies benefit all ages.

Key Points

This meta-analysis investigates the effectiveness of multilingual versus monolingual approaches in second language teaching and their impact on learning outcomes.
Comprehensive search identified 24 studies with 30 samples and 2,138 learners based on inclusion/exclusion criteria.
Aggregate effect sizes were calculated to compare learning outcomes of multilingual and monolingual approaches.
Moderator variables such as age, proficiency, and learning context were analyzed for their influence on effectiveness.
Multilingual approach showed a weighted between-group effect size of d = .49 and a within-group effect size of d = 1.63 compared to monolingual.
Positive effects were consistent across all ages and proficiencies, particularly for beginning learners using their L1.
Larger effects observed in studies targeting speaking skills, longer treatments, and where both teachers and students used their L1.

Cite This Study

Zhang et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a6700bd40bca442e0d4acaf https://doi.org/10.1177/13621688261455050

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The Effectiveness of Multilingual Versus Monolingual Approaches to L2 Teaching and Learning: A Meta-Analysis of Learning Outcomes

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Key Points

Cite This Study

The Effectiveness of Multilingual Versus Monolingual Approaches to L2 Teaching and Learning: A Meta-Analysis of Learning Outcomes

Discussion

Member takes

Implication

Key Points

Cite This Study

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