Final answer:
Neurolinguistic and neuropsychological research with bilinguals focuses on cognitive processes, executive functions, and neural plasticity related to language abilities. Bilingual education has shown to provide academic and professional advantages, contradicting some arguments against it.
Step-by-step explanation:
The current hypotheses and foci of neurolinguistic and neuropsychological research with bilinguals include attention to how dual language abilities impact cognitive processes, executive functions, and neural plasticity. This area of study investigates how bilingualism may alter brain structures and functions, and how it influences attention, memory, and problem-solving abilities.
Bilingual education is a contentious topic, with arguments on both sides. Proponents argue that education in one's native language in addition to a second language (usually English in the U.S.) can lead to better educational outcomes and cognitive advantages. For instance, studies, like those from Johns Hopkins University, have shown that students who receive instruction in both their native language and English perform better academically than those who are instructed solely in English.
Opponents of bilingual education might suggest that teaching exclusively in English could accelerate assimilation and proficiency in English. However, research does not necessarily support this assumption. Bilinguals, such as Lucy Alvarez, who received bilingual education, have demonstrated that being fluent in two languages can be a significant asset, especially in professional fields seeking bilingual employees like law enforcement.
Lastly, neurolinguistic research also examines language disorders such as aphasias and how bilingualism affects their manifestation and treatment. The study of language acquisition, bilingualism, and consequent neural adaptations offers important insights into the relationship between language and cognition.