At EEC International, we subscribe to the theory of Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills (BICS) and Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP) set forth by Dr. Jim Cummins, Professor and Canada Research Chair in the Department of Curriculum, Teaching, and Learning at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education in Toronto.

Many of our phonics and communication-based products address BICS and establish the framework for English language fluency by stressing everyday, contextualized conversation functions. We also view CALP as a distinct group of language skills that take significantly longer for non-native English speakers to develop than BICS. Therefore, we publish content-based and literature series so students can acquire these difficult yet critical skills. In the process, students can achieve complete language fluency in both interpersonal communication and academic subjects.

Please visit our Publications page to learn more about how our philosophy is reflected in the products we develop.

As we develop products and implement

our services, EEC International staff

members also keep the following

principles in mind:

• Students learn best when the content

   is relevant and the method of delivery

   is fun and experiential.

• Discrete language skills (phonics,

   reading, communication, writing, and

   grammar) must be taught in a structured

   yet integrated sequence that ensures progression over time.

• Curriculum products must be based on relevant standards and developed according

   to current educational theories and government legislation.