Communication Strategies for Non-verbal Children. Distance Learning

Course description

The inability to effectively communicate has been found to affect numerous daily life tasks. Researchers have found that individuals with disabilities experience less success than able-bodied individuals with respect to employment, education, independent living and relationships. It is essential therefore to offer augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to non-verbal children and have the knowledge to help the child to effectively use their particular system.

By choosing to study this course with Portobello Institute, students will have access to course materials from our online learning centre for the duration of the course. The course materials for this certified course are thorough and easy to read and can be downloaded in your own time and from the comfort of your own home. You will also be assigned a personal tutor for the duration of the course who will help you with any challenges you may encounter. In addition you will be able to upload assignments online and receive online feedback. You can use our online learning centre from any computer that has internet access. However, access to a computer is not compulsory as we can arrange for everything to be processed by post. There is an administration fee of €30 for this service.

Qualifications Gained
•Portobello Institute Certificate in Communications Strategies for non-verbal children

Entry Requirements

Entry to this course is by direct application to the college. There are no previous academic requirements.

Course Structure

As this course is delivered through distance learning it is carried out at the students own pace. Each student has 6 months to complete this course.

Course Delivery
•Online Learning Centre (requires internet access), or
•By Post (note that there is an admin fee of €30 for postal students)

Course Content Modules
1.What is involved in communication
2.What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
3.Types of AAC (Aided and Unaided Communication)
4.Types of AAC Communications
5.Types of AAC Communicators
6.Role of language and literacy in using AAC
7.Benefits of using AAC
8.Problems faced by children using AAC
9.Strategies to improve the use of different types of AAC
10.What is PECS
11.Specific stages/phases of PECS
12.Skills required for a child to effectively use PECS
13.Importance and value of introducing PECS to the child

Assessment Criteria

One short case study based assignment will be required to successfully complete this course.

Who is the course aimed at?

This course is aimed at teachers, special needs assistants, parents and any other adults involved in working with a non-verbal child.

Further Studies

Portobello Institute offers a number of short distance learning courses including:
•FETAC Special Needs Education (Level 5)
•Mental Health Awareness (Level 5)
•Intellectual Disability Studies (Level 5)
•Social Care Studies (Level 5)