11. Toward more reliable assessment of interpreting performance

This pilot study examines the use of rating scales in the assessment of interpreting performance quality. The three criteria and descriptors in the band scale were developed a priori based on intuitive understanding of different levels of interpreting quality and the rating scale models used in second language assessment. Nine professional Korean interpreters rated five English Korean consecutive interpreting performances using the scales, and provided feedback on the use of rating scales. The results indicate that rating scales may enhance the reliability of assessment of interpreting performance.