Yes/No
A communication strategy that requires the student to have a consistent "yes/no" response (i.e., eye gaze up for yes and eye gaze down for no). The communication partner can ask a yes/no question regarding any communication or academic topic or the student can be given two choices verbally with the communication partner using the identified yes/no response to indicate the student's choice. This method is typically easy and reliable if the student demonstrates the necessary prerequisites.
Live Voice Scan
A communication strategy that requires the student to demonstrate the ability to make choices and access a switch. This strategy requires that the student demonstrate the necessary receptive language abilities to be able to choose from a verbal menu that the communication partner verbalizes in a sequential fashion. The live voice scan strategy outlines the choices for the student and the student indicates choice by accessing a sequential message device that offers three varying messages (i.e., "I want that one," "That is my choice," or "That's the one I choose"). "Live Voice Scan" can be implemented in the absence of a switch or voice-output device using a lower-tech alternative. The child could make a physical or vocal signal in response to the "Live Voice Scan" rather than using the switch. This option may be more appropriate in some settings and doesn't require purchase of any equipment. This method can be used to indicate or respond to social or academic questioning. It is typically easy and reliable if the student demonstrates the necessary prerequisites.
Aided Language Stimulation
An approach in which the facilitator points out picture symbols on the child's communication display in conjunction with all ongoing language stimulation. Through the modeling process, the concept of using the pictorial symbols interactively is demonstrated for the individual (Goossens, Crain, & Elder, 1992, Engineering the Classroom Environment for Interactive Symbolic Communication-An Emphasis on the Developmental Period, 18 Months to Five Years). This approach is ideal for those individuals who demonstrate minimal picture/symbol/icon recognition. Often this approach is the first step in building iconic vocabulary.
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