Fluent use of a Speech Generating Device (SGD) requires several skills: approach a communication partner, construct a message via a sequence of button pushes and activate the voice on the device or app. Learners may have difficulty using the SGD or app due to issues related to communication skills or interacting with the device. Our initial observation, supported by Schreibman and Stahmer (2014), of young learners using the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) was that the majority developed independent speech and, thus, did not require transitioning to an SGD! When speech does not develop and given their foundational communication skills, transitioning to an SGD requires only that the learner acquire the skills to navigate using the SGD. This presentation will describe capitalizing on the foundational skills acquired during PECS that contribute to successful transition to a Speech Generating Device.
Workshop Details
Agenda: 60 minutes