Linee di tendenza e prospettive per l'adattamento delle certificazioni ufficiali di lingua italiana ad apprendenti sordi

Abstract

Deafness has its most pronounced impact in the realm of language, affecting both the comprehension and production of oral and written messages. Deaf individuals often exhibit a highly complex and unique form of bilingualism, which can be described as bimodal, diglossic, and simultaneous. Due to this, applying the principles of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) in the development of language proficiency tests for deaf users requires specific considerations. In this paper, after exploring the linguistic challenges associated with deafness, the authors propose strategies that the four Centers authorized to issue Italian language proficiency certificates could implement when assessing deaf learners. Additionally, the authors present a questionnaire designed to gather linguistic information from deaf candidates, and suggest adaptations based on the linguistic traits linked to this distinct form of bilingualism, accompanied by reflection and an open discussion on the topic.