A Comparative Study on the Rating System of Sign Language Proficiency Assessment

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to derive implications for the rating system of the Korean Sign Language Proficiency Test. Methods: The rating system and the evaluation criteria for the Korean Sign Language Proficiency Test and foreign sign language proficiency assessment systems were compared. Results: The Korean Sign Language Proficiency Test is a user-centered scale that focuses on what learners can do, but it also has the characteristics of a diagnostic-centered scale. Conclusion: The overall criteria of the Korean Sign Language Proficiency Test should function as a comprehensive scale that describes typical performance at each level. Various categories of sign language ability, such as language function, scope, interaction, and appropriateness, should be evaluated by a diagnostic-centered scale. Therefore, it is important for the overall criteria to maintain simplicity by comprehensively summarizing the abilities that are characteristic of each level. The assessment constructs to be included in the overall criteria should be carefully selected and the abilities required of learners should be specifically described.