SYMBOL-BASED COMMUNICATIONWhat is symbol-based communication?Symbol based communication is the “alternative” in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Taking a closer look at the elements of AAC allows us to see where symbol-based communication fits within this context:
Symbol-based communication is often used by individuals who are unable to communicate using speech alone and who have not yet developed, or have difficulty developing literacy skills. Symbols offer a visual representation of a word or idea. “The immediate goal is NOT for students to use all of the symbols we’ve introduced functionally in their own communication but for them to interact with others who are modelling symbol-based approaches to communication.” – Karen Erickson Which students would benefit from symbol-based communication?Students whose speech is:
How can students benefit from symbol-based communication?Students who are provided authentic and meaningful opportunities to communicate using a symbol-based system across learning and living environments benefit in a multitude of ways including:
Examples of symbol-based communication:Check out this resource for templates for Low-tech Communication Board options: https://saltillo.com/chatcorner/content/29
An e-tran, or an eye gaze communication board, is a vertically held/mounted board, made of plexiglass or sturdy paper with a window cut in the middle, that enables students to communicate by focusing their gaze on selected items displayed on the board. Items can be displayed in any configuration and can be encoded to provide more choices on each board. Students access the ETran via Partner Assisted Scanning. How can we teach symbol-based communication?If we expect learners to speak using symbols, we must speak using symbols. Aided Language Stimulation or Aided Language Input is a research-based strategy for teaching symbol-based communication. Essentially, communication partners model or demonstrate symbol-based communication when talking with students who are learning to use symbol-based communication. A robust and well-organized set of symbols need to be available in order to demonstrate how they can be used to comment, ask questions, make requests, joke, greet, protest and so on at home, school and in the community. Using the same well-organized set of symbols flexibly in all environments supports communication development and language learning over time. Following are a few points to keep in mind when modeling symbol-based communication:
What is core vocabulary?About 85% of our English spoken language is comprised of 250-350 words. Core vocabulary is a relatively small set of words that have been determined to be highly useful for communicating in both social and academic contexts. Core vocabulary is primarily composed of pronouns, verbs, descriptors, and prepositions. There are very few nouns. The DLM Core Vocabulary Project was initiated to determine the vocabulary that is necessary for students with significant cognitive disabilities to engage, learn, and demonstrate knowledge in an academic environment. These words have been extensively researched by the Center for Literacy and Disability Studies for words needed for AAC Core vocabulary and Academic Core Vocabulary. Where can I learn more?Aided Language Videos Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) – Beginning Communicators Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) – Core Vocabulary Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) – Core Vocabulary and Communication Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) – Speaking and Listening Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) – Supporting Participating in Discussion Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) – Symbols Language Stealers (video 2:52
min) Noun Town Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display (PODD) communication books were developed in Australia by Gayle Porter, originally for children with cerebral palsy. Their structured organization and emphasis on visual communication means that they are also a valuable tool for developing the communication of those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (Porter & Cafiero, 2009). http://praacticalaac.org/praactical/how-i-do-it-using-podd-books-and-aided-language-displays-with-young-learners-with-autism-spectrum-disorder Project Core Symbols and Learning to Read Tar Heel Reader Tar Heel Shared Reader Top 10 Tips for Partner Assisted Scanning, Gretchen Hanser, Ph.D., Center for Literacy and Disability Studies, 2007. What name is given to a universal means of communication of ideas using lines and symbols?Symbolic communication in humans can be defined as the rule-governed use of a system of arbitrary symbols whose definition and usage are agreed upon by the community of users.
What is the meaning of use of symbols to communicate?Symbol-based communication is often used by individuals who are unable to communicate using speech alone and who have not yet developed, or have difficulty developing literacy skills. Symbols offer a visual representation of a word or idea.
What is a system of words and symbols used to communicate?Language is a system of symbols, words, and/or gestures used to communicate meaning. People are raised in different cultures, with different values, beliefs, customs, and different languages to express those cultural attributes.
What are signs and symbols in communication?The main difference between the two is that a sign is a form of language that directly communicates with the targeted audiences. Sign could also mean a usage of gestures to convey information or instructions. What is this? In contrast, a symbol is a conventional representation of an object, function, or process.
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