Board+Maker

[|Boardmaker]

Boardmaker is a software program that is used for creating communication displays and educational materials. It is simple and fast to use and has been highly rated by all of the Special needs teachers that I have ever had contact with. It is recognised as a top tool for educators and speech and langauge pathologists. Boardmaker is the leading software of it's kind. Some features of Boardmaker include:
 * More than 4,500 picture communication symbols in both black-and-white and color
 * More than 300 templates for schedules, device overlays, calendars, song boards, and more
 * 42 languages
 * Option to install country-specific symbols such as holidays, famous people, food and currency
 * Easy to use and quick to learn
 * The ability to Import digital photos and other graphics and easily resize and format [2]

. Boardmaker can be used to create communication boards within a classroom, 'communication books, schedules, worksheets, reading and writing activities, games and song boards, books, etc'. It can also be used for ESL students with the picture then the word printed in english underneath as well as first language.

Boardmaker aids students who may not be able to verbally communicate with others, allowing them to 'speak', as in they can communicate through visuals. As we know visuals are especially big in special education and Boardmaker is one of the original software progams that caters to this need. Boardmaker can be used from a very young age right up to adulthood dependent on individual needs. Those with and those without special needs can benefit from boardmaker as some students are able to focus better with a visual and it can be used as a visual promt which in turn will lead to speech. It is generally used in conjunction with the PECS program where children and adults with communication issues are encouraged to initiate communication. References:

Camarota, N., (n.d.) //Boardmaker//. Retrieved on 26/7/11 from []

[3] Pyramid Educational Consultants. (n.d.) //What is PECS: picture communication exchange// //system.// Retrieved 26/7/11, from [|http://www.pecsautstralia.com]