In the realm of special education and speech therapy, the quest for effective tools to enhance communication for individuals with speech and language impairments is ongoing. With the advent of technology, this quest has seen significant advancements, particularly in the development and use of communication boards. Two notable programs that have made a substantial impact are the Mayer-Johnson Communication Board-Builder and Edmark's Communication Board Skill Builder. This blog explores the functionalities, strengths, and potential applications of these programs, aiming to guide practitioners in improving their skills and encouraging further research.
The Mayer-Johnson Communication Board-Builder: A Comprehensive Tool
The Mayer-Johnson Communication Board-Builder is designed to assist in creating communication boards using Picture Communication Symbols (PCS). With a library of 1600 PCS's, this program offers a wide array of symbols categorized by themes such as People, Food, and Nouns, making it easier for clinicians to design tailored communication boards for their clients. The program is noted for its user-friendliness, allowing for easy access to symbols, straightforward editing, and the capability to store or print the created boards.
Its primary strengths lie in its comprehensive symbol library, excellent graphics, and script quality. The option to include text-only descriptions when a graphic is not available further enhances its versatility. The program is highly rated for its effectiveness, user-friendliness, and support documentation, making it a valuable asset for any clinician involved in designing communication boards.
Edmark's Communication Board Skill Builder: Focusing on User Skills
Edmark's Communication Board Skill Builder takes a slightly different approach by offering 17 communication board formats designed to teach and evaluate the use of communication boards for clients requiring augmentative communication programs. This program can be instrumental in determining the most suitable type of board for a specific client and serves as a model for custom-making communication boards.
Although documentation regarding the program's effectiveness is not extensively detailed, its user-friendliness is evident. The program is easy to navigate, and instructions are displayed clearly, ensuring a smooth user experience. The voice quality and colorful graphics make the program engaging, although it has been noted that the automatic scanning through choices can be time-consuming.
The program's primary strengths include its accessibility and the quality of its voice and graphics. However, the lack of detailed documentation on its application and some design choices, such as the use of color bars and the occasional annoying "beep" after each picture, have been identified as areas for improvement.
Practical Applications and Further Research
Both programs offer unique advantages and have their place in the toolkit of speech therapists and special education professionals. The Mayer-Johnson Communication Board-Builder's extensive library and ease of use make it ideal for creating customized communication boards. In contrast, Edmark's Communication Board Skill Builder's focus on teaching and evaluating user skills can play a crucial role in selecting and implementing the most effective communication strategies for individuals with speech and language impairments.
For practitioners looking to enhance their skills or explore new tools, these programs offer a solid foundation. However, the evolution of technology and the diverse needs of individuals with communication impairments necessitate ongoing research and development. Practitioners are encouraged to engage with the latest research, share their experiences, and contribute to the collective knowledge base to further refine and develop tools that can make a significant difference in the lives of those they serve.
In conclusion, the Mayer-Johnson Communication Board-Builder and Edmark's Communication Board Skill Builder represent significant advancements in augmentative communication technologies. Their contributions to enhancing communication for individuals with speech and language impairments cannot be overstated. By leveraging these tools, practitioners can offer more effective support to their clients, paving the way for improved communication and quality of life. As technology continues to evolve, the potential for further innovations in this field remains vast, promising even more effective solutions in the future.
For those interested in delving deeper into the specifics of these programs and their evaluations, the original research paper provides valuable insights. To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Communication Board Skill Builder and Program.
