Predicting proficiency in signed language interpreting

A preliminary study

María José López Gómez | University of Granada

Teresa Bajo Molina | University of Granada

Presentación Padilla Benítez | University of Granada

Julio Santiago de Torres | University of Granada

An empirical study was designed to identify which perceptual-motor, cognitive and personality factors may underlie both acquisition of a signed language as a B language and development of signed language interpreting skills. If abilities that are potentially needed are found, a previous assessment of candidates’ potential for developing signed-language interpreting skills could be useful in identifying which students are likely to obtain good results during training. Perceptual-motor and cognitive skills, personality factors and academic background were hypothesized as possible predictors of success. Results showed that perceptual-motor and cognitive abilities are more important than personality traits in predicting proficiency in learning a signed language and developing signed-language interpreting abilities. Perceptual-motor coordination is the most reliable factor for predicting signed language proficiency, followed by other cognitive and personal factors.

Keywords: proficiency, perceptual-motor coordination, cognitive skills, personality, signed language interpreting, predictor

Published online: 01 June 2007
https://doi.org/10.1075/intp.9.1.05lop

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