# Bilingual Education — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/bilingual-education

**In short:** Educational programs that use two languages for instruction, developing proficiency in both languages.
**Bilingual education** uses two languages for instruction, with goals of developing proficiency in both languages while learning academic content. Programs vary significantly in structure, language allocation, and target populations.

## Types of Bilingual Programs

Transitional programs use the native language temporarily while students learn English. Maintenance programs continue native language instruction throughout schooling. Two-way (dual language) programs serve both native English speakers and native speakers of another language, developing bilingualism in both groups.

## Benefits of Bilingual Education

Research shows bilingualism provides cognitive benefits, improved executive function, cultural connections, and economic advantages. Quality bilingual programs can lead to academic achievement equal to or exceeding monolingual peers.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: Does bilingual education delay English learning?**

No. Research shows students in quality bilingual programs achieve English proficiency equal to or better than those in English-only programs, while also developing their native language.
**Q: What is dual language education?**

Dual language programs serve both native English speakers and speakers of another language, teaching all students in both languages with goals of bilingualism and biliteracy for all.
**Q: Is bilingual education available in public schools?**

Availability varies by district and state. Dual language programs are expanding in many areas due to growing recognition of bilingualism's benefits.

---
Source: SchoolBrowse Education Glossary (https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary). Please attribute and link to https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/bilingual-education when citing this definition.