communication devices

What are they?

Communication devices may be simple and designed just to enhance speech output, such as amplifiers. Or they may be more complex, such as communication aids or laptops using communication software, which are designed to augment independent speech for students with severe general mobility difficulties such as in cerebral palsy. A user of augmentative and alternative communication aids (AAC) works through a series of pictures, symbols and words to produce sentences of synthesised speech.


Mobile or adapted telephones can also help communication. A deaf student might use text messaging to confirm appointments or to receive information from you.


E-mail is one of the most effective methods for communicating information to students and has a valuable role in an inclusive policy.


Much of the equipment available to aid communication is electronic and uses synthesised speech. However non-electric boards or books that use pictures, symbols and words may also be used.
How are they used?


Speech amplification may be useful in students’ presentations, or to answer questions in large halls.


Communication aids, as specialist devices or as part of a laptop set up, can provide a student with total oral language support. Vocabulary can be adapted to suit chosen courses and even particular occasions, such as a viva voce, although this may involve specialist support.


Mobile technology, text messaging and e-mailing are relevant to the online support offered to students whether the course has distance learning elements, is based on an e-learning paradigm or involves face-to-face tuition.
Any issues to be aware of?


It may be easier to adapt a learning situation to support a quietly spoken student or one who has voice problems rather than set up special equipment. Amplification or the use of a microphone can help but some students feel embarrassed taking this action. A smaller room or a particular seating position may be all that is needed.


On average we speak at between 140–160 words per minute, whereas those using communication aids can manage around 12–50 words per minute. So allow extra time in question and answer sessions as well as for presentations.


Text tends to be more concise than face-to-face conversations, which also include a considerable amount of non-verbal information. Be aware that some meaning may be lost in SMS or e-mail and misunderstandings can occur.

#copypaste from http://www.open.ac.uk/inclusiveteaching/pages/inclusive-teaching/communication-devices.php