Generalization of Skills Using Pictographic and Voice Output Communication Devices
By Dyches, Tina Taylor; Davis, Annabelle; Lucindo, Bonnie R.; Young, James R.; Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Vol. 18, No. 2, pp. 124-131Publication Date: June 2002
Case study following the instruction of an adolescent female student with multiple disabilities who uses two augmentative and alternative communication devices: (1) a pictographic display constructed using Picture Communication Symbols, and (2) a SpeakEasy voice output communication aid (VOCA). The SpeakEasy was designed as an introductory VOCA for individuals who are beginning to learn to use switches, make choices, and identify symbols. The pictographic display and VOCA overlay consisted of basic request symbols, such as “Do you have?” and “I want.” The request symbols were accompanied by four food symbols: (1) hamburger, (2) french fries, (3) soda pop, and (4) chicken nuggets. Four additional request symbols were included: (1) bathroom, (2) time, (3) elevator, and (4) thank you. A treatment design assessed community members’ response times, focus of attention, and comprehension of requests made via the two devices. The devices demonstrated similar rates of efficiency.
Assistive Products Discussed: SPEAKEASY COMMUNICATION AID
PICTURE COMMUNICATION SYMBOLS BOOK I, II, III & PICTURE COMMUNICATION SYMBOLS COMPLETE SET
Published by: International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC) (Website:http://www.isaac-online.org)
