keeleoskuse

Keeleoskuse is an Estonian term that literally means "language ability" or "language proficiency." It refers to a person's capacity to use a language for comprehension, expression and interaction across listening, speaking, reading and writing. The concept encompasses both communicative competence (practical use in real situations) and linguistic competence (knowledge of grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation).

Assessment of keeleoskuse often follows standardized frameworks, such as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which describes progressive levels from basic user to proficient user. Evaluations can be formal (standardized tests, certification exams) or informal (teacher assessment, self-assessment, workplace performance). Reliable assessment considers multiple skills, context, and functional ability rather than isolated knowledge.

Factors influencing keeleoskuse include age of acquisition, amount and type of exposure, instruction quality, motivation, and opportunities for practice. Sociocultural context, literacy in related languages, and cognitive factors also affect development. Language maintenance and attrition are relevant when usage decreases.

In education and employment, keeleoskuse is a key criterion for placement, credentialing and workplace readiness. Policies for language learning and integration often emphasize measurable proficiency to support mobility, inclusion and access to services. Research on keeleoskuse spans applied linguistics, second language acquisition, psycholinguistics and language assessment, addressing how proficiency develops, how it is measured, and how it relates to identity and social participation.