The Framework of Reference for Sign Languages - Support for the develpoment Reference Descriptors of Czech Sign Language
Abstract
The Framework of Reference for Sign Language (abbreviation FRSL) is a world-class document produced by Czech leading experts in the field of sign language (linguists, translators, educators...), of the Common European Framework of Reference, experts in the development of evaluation tools. The FRSL is the first reference material in Europe on learning, teaching and assessment in sign languages. Syllabuses, exams, textbooks, curricula, etc. will be modelled on the basis of the FRSL and these curricula, exams... can be comparable through this FRSL. An important part of the FRSL is the definition of the so-called reference levels (A1-C2). Each reference level characterizes the knowledge and skills that a sign language user must have to be successful in a particular type of communication. With this document, the Czech Republic is the first country to present this indispensable reference for sign languages. The global importance is demonstrated by the fact that the FRSL can be placed on a par with the well-known Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (abbreviation CEFR, a document of the Council of Europe). CEFR is created for written languages, FRSL for sign languages.
This exceptional piece of writing is the result of the five-year project "Step-by-Step Common Education and School Support. Implementation of the Action Plan for Inclusive Education - Methodological Support" (APIV A), implemented by the National Pedagogical Institute of the Czech Republic (NPI CR), project registration number: CZ.02.3.61/0.0/0.0/16_020/0004410.