Resource: PECS Overview

Explanation: PECS enables students to communicate using pictures, facilitating the expression of needs and desires. It's particularly beneficial for non-verbal students (Charlop-Christy, et al., 2012). For example, a student can hand over a picture of a snack to request it.​dreambigchildren.com

Implementation Steps:

1. Introduce the system by teaching the student to exchange a picture for a desired item.

2. Gradually increase the complexity by adding more pictures and encouraging sentence formation.

Evaluation: Monitor the frequency and spontaneity of picture exchanges to assess increased communication.

Resource: Social Stories Overview

Explanation: Social Stories are personalized narratives that help students understand social situations and appropriate responses. For instance, a story can prepare a student for a school assembly by describing what to expect.

Implementation Steps:

1. Develop a story tailored to the student's specific situation or challenge.

2. Read and discuss the story with the student regularly before the anticipated event.

Evaluation: Observe the student's behavior in the targeted situation to determine comprehension and reduced anxiety.

Resource: Autism Communication Strategies

Explanation: Visual schedules provide a sequence of activities using images or symbols, helping students anticipate and prepare for transitions (Ganz, et.al, 2012). For example, a schedule can outline the day's activities, reducing anxiety about upcoming events.​

Implementation Steps:

1. Create a visual representation of the daily routine using pictures or symbols.

2. Review the schedule with the student at the start of each day and refer to it before transitions.

Evaluation: Track the student's ability to transition between activities smoothly and their reliance on the schedule over time.

Resource: Evidence-Based Practices for Effective Communication

Explanation: Video modeling involves showing videos that depict appropriate behaviors or skills, which students can imitate. For instance, a video demonstrating how to greet peers can improve social interactions.​

Implementation Steps:

1. Select or create videos that showcase the desired behavior or skill.

2. Have the student watch the video multiple times and practice the behavior in real-life situations.

Evaluation: Observe the student's replication of the behavior in appropriate contexts and their comfort level in doing so.​

Resource: AAC Devices for Autism

Explanation: SGDs produce spoken language output, allowing students to communicate verbally (Lorah, et al., 2015). For example, a non-verbal student can use an SGD to participate in classroom discussions.​

Implementation Steps:

1. Customize the device with vocabulary relevant to the student's daily life.

2. Provide training for the student and staff on effective usage.

Evaluation: Monitor the student's increased participation in verbal interactions and their ability to express needs and thoughts.

Resource: Proloquo2Go Overview

Explanation: This AAC app offers a symbol-based communication system on tablets, aiding students in constructing sentences. For instance, a student can use it to request a break or express feelings.​

Implementation Steps:

1. Install the app on a compatible device and customize the vocabulary to suit the student's needs.

2. Train the student in navigating the app to form sentences.

Evaluation: Assess the student's ability to communicate effectively across various settings using the app.