What is meant by proficiency in sign language?
The UBC Program in Education of the Deaf and Hard of hearing meets national certification requirements as set out by the Canadian Association of Educators of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CAEDHH). Although CAEDHH standards require that specialist teachers have a knowledge of sign language, the UBC program strongly encourages students to develop proficiency in sign language whenever possible. Even for students who plan to teach in an oral setting where sign language will not be used, a knowledge of the various communication approaches used by deaf and hard of hearing individuals is always an asset and contributes strongly to a balanced study of the speciality area. It is difficult to define proficiency exactly, but one commonly accepted measure is a standing of Intermediate Plus or higher on the Language Proficiency Index developed by Dr. Mike Kemp at Gallaudet University. A student who does not have sufficient sign communication skill may be denied access to some practicum sites.
