VIDBE-Q 2025 Volume 70 Issue 2
also offer guidance for others considering similar school-wide tangible symbol
systems.
Recommendations
• Include all relevant team members in symbol development before rollout,
ensure consistency, and shared ownership.
• Establish shared goals around use of symbols within the school. Consider
phased implementation with timeline for implementing specific goals
through the rollout of a school wide system.
• Plan for sustainability and ongoing changes within the school (i.e., staffing,
materials).
• Create an onsite workspace for symbol adaption.
• Label and organize symbols throughout the school ensuring access for
everyone.
• Create structures to answer questions during ongoing implementation.
• Use data and reflective practices to guide adjustments and improve
outcomes.
• Include effective teaming strategies related to implementing AAC and
tangible symbols in pre-service and in-service professional development.
• Collaborate across disciplines to integrate tangible symbols with other forms
of AAC (low or high tech).
