Types of Symbols in Communication Boards
What Are Communication Boards?
Communication boards are visual aids designed to help individuals communicate, particularly those with speech or language difficulties. They serve as a bridge for expressing thoughts, needs, and emotions when verbal communication is challenging.
Key Features of Communication Boards:
- Definition: Communication boards are tools that use symbols, pictures, or words arranged in grids to represent concepts.
- Purpose: They are used by individuals with conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, or stroke-related impairments.
- Formats: Communication boards can be physical (made of paper, plastic, or wood) or digital (on tablets, computers, or apps).
- Organization: Symbols are arranged in a structured grid to make communication intuitive and accessible.
Understanding communication boards is the foundation for learning about the symbols used in them, as they are the building blocks of effective communication.
Why Are Symbols Important in Communication Boards?
Symbols are the core elements that make communication boards effective. They transform abstract ideas into visual representations, enabling users to express themselves clearly.
The Role of Symbols:
- Bridging Thoughts and Communication: Symbols help users translate their thoughts into understandable messages.
- Universal Understanding: Many symbols are recognizable across languages and cultures, making them accessible to diverse users.
- Simplicity: Symbols simplify complex ideas into easy-to-understand visuals.
- Flexibility: They can be customized to match the user’s abilities and preferences.
- Consistency: Using consistent symbols reduces frustration and misunderstandings.
Symbols are essential for creating communication boards that are functional, intuitive, and meaningful.
Types of Symbols in Communication Boards
Different types of symbols are used in communication boards, each with unique characteristics and applications. Understanding these types helps in selecting the right symbols for individual needs.
Common Types of Symbols:
- Picture Communication Symbols (PCS):
- Simple, clear, and versatile.
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Widely used in AAC systems for their ease of recognition.
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Blissymbols:
- Abstract and conceptual.
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Language-independent, making them suitable for multilingual users.
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Text-Based Symbols:
- Use written words or phrases.
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Ideal for users with literacy skills or those developing reading abilities.
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Photographs:
- Realistic and personalized.
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Useful for representing specific objects, people, or places.
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Iconic Symbols:
- Minimalist and digital-friendly.
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Commonly used in apps and digital communication tools.
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Manual Signs (ASL Symbols):
- Gestural symbols based on American Sign Language.
- Culturally relevant for users familiar with ASL.
Each type of symbol has its strengths, and the choice depends on the user’s needs and context.
How to Choose the Right Symbols
Selecting the right symbols is crucial for creating an effective communication board. The choice should align with the user’s abilities, preferences, and communication goals.
Guidelines for Choosing Symbols:
- Consider Cognitive Level: Choose symbols that match the user’s cognitive abilities. For example, simple PCS may work better for beginners.
- Assess Language Skills: Use text-based symbols for users with literacy skills or photographs for those who benefit from realistic visuals.
- Involve the User: Engage the user in selecting symbols that are meaningful and relevant to their daily life.
- Match the Context: Consider the environment where the board will be used. For example, digital boards may require iconic symbols, while physical boards may use PCS or photographs.
Personalization is key to ensuring the communication board is effective and meaningful.
Practical Examples of Communication Boards
Real-world examples help illustrate how symbols are used in communication boards. These examples demonstrate the application of different symbol types in various contexts.
Example 1: A Child’s Daily Routine Board
- Symbols Used: PCS and photographs.
- Purpose: Helps a child with autism follow a daily schedule.
- Layout: Symbols are arranged in a sequence to represent activities like brushing teeth, eating breakfast, and going to school.
Example 2: A Stroke Survivor’s Communication Board
- Symbols Used: Text-based and iconic symbols.
- Purpose: Assists a stroke survivor in expressing basic needs and emotions.
- Layout: Symbols are grouped into categories like food, emotions, and medical needs.
Example 3: A Digital Communication App
- Symbols Used: Iconic symbols and manual signs (ASL).
- Purpose: Enables a nonverbal user to communicate using a tablet.
- Layout: Symbols are organized into folders for quick access to frequently used phrases.
These examples highlight the versatility and adaptability of communication boards in different scenarios.
Conclusion
Symbols are the cornerstone of effective communication boards, enabling users to express themselves clearly and confidently. By understanding the different types of symbols and their applications, you can create or use communication boards that are tailored to individual needs.
Key Takeaways:
- Symbols bridge the gap between thoughts and communication.
- Different types of symbols suit different needs and contexts.
- Personalization is essential for creating meaningful and effective communication boards.
Encourage yourself to apply this knowledge in creating or using communication boards, and explore how symbols can transform communication for individuals with speech or language challenges.
References:
- Educational materials on AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication).
- Research on symbol-based communication systems.
- Symbol systems like PCS, Blissymbols, and ASL.
- Best practices in AAC design.
- Case studies and user scenarios.