Functional Descriptions of Kansas Quality Assurance Screening (KQAS) Certification Levels
This information is provided as a general reference regarding KQAS certification levels.
Level I, Entry Level Beginner
Should be used for:
- One-on-one situations of a non-technical nature where communications can be interrupted as needed for clarification and feedback. Limited voicing. Limited American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting. Stronger Pidgin Signed English (PSE) or English transliterating.
- Should not be used for: Legal, mental health, educational, platform, serious medical, critical situations of any nature. Because Level I represents apprentice level skills, Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) generally does not recommend use of interpreters at this level.
Level II, Intermediate Level Beginner
Should be used for:
- One-on-one situations where communication can be interrupted easily for clarification. Limited voicing. Limited platform. Limited group sessions. Acceptable for job applications, orientation sessions, basic tutoring and non-technical medical exams.
Should not be used for:
- Legal, mental health, educational, serious medical, critical situations of any nature. Because Level II represents apprentice level skills, KCDHH generally does not recommend use of interpreters at this level.
Level III, Advanced Level Beginner
Should be used for:
- one-on-one situations and most group or workshop situations that do not require extensive voicing.
Should not be used for:
- Legal, mental health counseling, serious medical, critical situations of any nature.
Level IV, Accomplished Level
Should be used for:
Should not be used for:
- Legal. Discretion should be used based on situational factors and language level of client.
Level V, Master Level
Should be used for:
Should not be used for:
- No restrictions are indicated. Interpreter should use professional judgment in accepting assignments.
Effective Date: May 1, 1998