Cummins, Jim

Jim Cummins is a prominent researcher in the field of language education and bilingualism. He is known for his work on how children learn multiple languages and how educators can support these learners. Cummins introduced important concepts such as Bilingual Interdependence Hypothesis, emphasizing that skills gained in a first language can transfer to a second language, and the distinction between Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills (BICS) and Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP), which differentiates everyday language from academic language. His research helps inform effective teaching strategies for multilingual students, ensuring they develop both conversational fluency and academic competence.