Communication is Key

“For a person with a sever motor impairment who does not speak, communication… is the key that unlocks the door, … letting the individual out and the rest of the world in. It is the language that truly connects one human to the other.”

In my occupational setting I am interacting with nonverbal students consistently throughout my workday. Since September, these particular learners have been undergoing training to independently use the technology devices, assisting in the process of communication. The communication programs allow interaction with peers, teachers and therapist to occur fluently. Although, the chosen communication boards are extremely effective, interaction does not always have to be implemented through words. Body gestures, sounds, and facial expressions are also terms of communication, specifically defined as augmentative communication. Augmentative communication is extremely important, especially throughout my daily responsibilities. There are gestures my students express that no communication device would ever be able to depict and announce effectively. For example, one specific learner I interact with does not understand how to identify the sensation of specific emotions, nervousness particularly. However, I am able to identify when she is nervous and uncomfortable by the way she positions her hands. Take note of your student’s gestural expressions, for these gestures will be able to tell you more than words could begin to describe.

 Dell, A., Newton, D., & Petroff, J. (2012). Assistive Technology in the Classroom. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.