málskilningur

Málskilningur is the Icelandic term for language comprehension or linguistic understanding, covering the ability of a speaker or listener to decode, interpret, and use language in meaningful ways. The word derives from “mál” (speech or language) and “skilningur” (comprehension). In linguistic research, it is treated as a key competency in both first language acquisition and second language learning, and it is often evaluated through listening comprehension tests, reading comprehension tasks, and practical usage in discourse.

In psycholinguistics, málskilningur is studied to explore the cognitive processes that enable people to map sounds, words, and syntactic structures onto concepts. Models of the comprehension process emphasize the roles of working memory, lexical access, and context integration. Comparative studies show that proficiency in a native language can influence the development of comprehension skills in additional languages, a phenomenon known as cross‑linguistic transfer.

Language educators use the concept of málskilningur to design curricula that promote balanced skill development. Activities that encourage active listening, strategic reading, and interactive speaking practice aim to enhance comprehension across modalities. Assessment frameworks in Icelandic schools and higher education frequently include standardized comprehension measures, enabling educators to track progress and identify areas requiring targeted intervention.