Functional Descriptions of Interpreter Levels

Functional Descriptions of Interpreter Levels

Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA)

National Association of the Deaf (NAD)

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)

 


 

Quality Assurance Screening Test (QAST)

QAST means Mid-America Quality Assurance Screening Test, a regional sign language interpreting and transliterating assessment tool. Interpreters can receive a Level I through a Level V rating:

  • Level I is the Entry beginner’s level for the candidate. Interpreters with a Level I can be used in one-on-one situations where communication can be interrupted easily for clarification and situations where there will be limited voicing required. Interpreters with a Level I should not be used in the following situations: legal, mental health, educational, platform, serious medical or critical situations of any nature.
  • Level II is an Intermediate beginner’s level. Interpreters with a Level II can be used in one-on-one situations where communication can be interrupted occasionally for clarification, situations where there will be limited voicing and limited platform interpreting required. A Level II interpreter can also be used in limited group sessions/workshops where communication can be interrupted easily for clarification. Interpreters with a Level II should not be used in the following situations: legal, mental health, educational, serious medical or critical situations of any nature.
  • Level III is an Advanced beginner’s level. Interpreters with a Level III can be used in most one-on-one situations, most group sessions, or most workshops with limited voicing required. Interpreters with a Level III should not be used in the following situations: legal, mental health, serious medical or critical situations of any nature.
  • Level IV is a Qualified level. Interpreters with a Level IV can function well as an interpreter or transliterator. Interpreters with a Level IV should not be used in the following situations: civil or criminal court cases or extensive mental health therapy.
  • Level V is an Accomplished level. No restrictions are indicated for an interpreter with a Level V.