Description
The American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI) is a structured conversation which is carried out between a candidate and a trained interviewer. The ASLPI attempts to give the candidate the opportunity to demonstrate the level of proficiency at which he or she is able to perform in ASL in a realistic conversational situation. Following the interview, the candidate's performance is given a numerical rating that can range from 0-5.
Content of the Interview
The interview does not require a detailed knowledge of facts about, or close familiarity with any particular area or topic. The intent is not to "quiz" the candidate but to provide an opportunity for the individual to demonstrate the highest level of signing performance of which he or she is capable within a relatively free conversational setting.
During the Interview Process
The interview is conducted in a quiet room. A video camera is set up to record the interview. There are typically 2 raters and one interviewer for each interview. The interview itself involves a conversation beginning at a relatively simple level and increasing in pace and linguistic complexity to the point of maximum candidate performance.