Communication Boards
Overview
Communication boards are displays of graphics (e.g., pictures, symbols, illustrations) and/or words where learners can gesture or point to the displays to extend their expressive language potential. As a form of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), communication board types can range from non technology (e.g., laminated core board posters, notebooks with interchangeable notecards of graphics paired with words) to high technology-based equipment such as ipads with communication board apps, and switch operated or eye controlled speech-generating devices. It is important to consider the skills and backgrounds (for instance their Working Memory, Background Knowledge, and Speed of Processing) when creating or buying pre-made communication boards. Social Supports such as educators, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, caregivers and friends can play a key role in supporting the creation of and effective use of this tool. These boards can be used across a variety of contexts including schools, households, community, and medical settings. Communication boards can assist learners who are nonspeaking, minimally speaking, have language-based learning disabilities, and/ or who are learning another language to more effectively express their immediate needs, preferences, questions, decisions, and emotions to others, key aspects of Communication. Communication boards can also be used as a tool to support learners with ADHD who experience communication difficulties when experiencing cognitive or sensory overload. When implemented properly, communication boards have the power to support learners to more readily: access, process and communicate information within their environment; participate with others in school, home and community activities; demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of Vocabulary, concepts, skills, and/or tasks within specific contexts; and convey their personal experiences, thoughts and/or concerns. These devices can increase learners' level of independence, Motivation, and Learner Mindset within social interactions and help reduce or replace maladaptive behaviors (e.g., avoidance, withdrawal, aggression) that may be caused by barriers to Communication.
Example: Use This Strategy in the Classroom
Watch a teenage girl use a head mouse and speech-generating device to communicate through a high-tech communication board.
Design It into Your Product
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Multisensory Supports Strategies
Creating visual representations such as drawings, diagrams, graphs, and concept maps, whether student or teacher-generated, can help students process abstract concepts, enhancing understanding and retention of information.
Using motions to explain new concepts or ideas supports the ability to process new information and to convey thinking and conceptual understanding.
Music and dance supports learners in a myriad of ways, including supporting their engagement and motivation, connecting with cultural background, and offering structure during play.
