Communication+Resources

=**Communication**=

Communication is an integral part of learning, as communication occurs continously throughout the school day. Teachers communicate with students formally and informally. Students must be able to communicate with their teachers and peers. Therefore, students with communication difficulties will be disadvantaged in both learning and social activites unless the student has an effective and functional means of communication.

It has been found that as many as 1 in 7 children are found to have communication disorders (Foreman, 2008, 0g 346). These children may have difficulty understanding what is said, or making himself or herself understood through spoken language. Spoken or written words are symbols, but other types of symbols, such as signs and pictures can be used for communication.

On [|Kizclub], there are flashcards that may help students communicate in the classroom. The website has pictures of objects and abstract nouns that will appear regularly in the classroom. The flashcards would be a communication tool that could be used within the classroom. (They are appropriate for all primary year levels but may not be enough words/concepts for the upper year levels).

The topics of flashcards include: - animals - my home - food - nature, including the solar system - people and things - special things - seasons and weather - myself - feelings, body parts, daily routine, school etc - my neighbourhood - road signs, people in the community etc

The teacher can build on the examples from the website, depending on the needs of the students. Picture flashcards improving communication has flashcards for emotions that could be used in the classroom.

The flashcards can be placed around the classroom so that they can be easily noticed, so if a child is having trouble communicating, the student can easily point to one of the pictures. The teacher can also use the pictures to communicate back if the student does not understand something.

Just as students have the right to be educated in an inclusive setting, students have the right to the resources that enhance communication to assist them within the school environment. Being able to communicate would also help students to be able to interact with their peers and teachers, it is an important part of the school experience.

Early introduction to these resources provides a functional means of communication, as well as a reduction in the likelihood of the use of disruptive and/or destructive behaviours as a means of communication.


 * References**

Foreman, Phil (Ed.). (2008). Inclusion in Action. Melbourne, Australia: Cengage Learning Australia Pty Ltd.

Hyde, Carpenter & Conway (2010). Diversity and Inclusion in Australian Schools. Melbourne, Australia: Oxford University Press

Teaching Extras. Retrieved from [|www.kizclub.com/teaching.htm]