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VIDBE-Q Volume 63 Issue 2
Caroline Cacchio
Student
Kutztown University Vision Program
ccacc223@live.kutztown.edu
Jacqueline Morell
Student
Kutztown University Vision Program
jmore660@live.kutztown.edu
When working with nonverbal students, it is important to allow them to
communicate their wants and needs in an appropriate, effective manner. If a nonverbal
student is unable to communicate his or her wants and needs, it can distract them from
their learning. More often than not, the nonverbal student will become frustrated and
unproductive all together. If nonverbal students are unable to use certain augmentative
communication, there is an alternative. We researched other methods that utilize body
systems or senses that the nonverbal student has best use of to communicate.
Some augmentative communication devices are successful for students and aid in
creating effective communication for the nonverbal population. They give individuals an
outlet for which they can share thoughts and feelings (Beukalman, Mirenda, &
Beukalman, 2013). However, these devices can be very limiting; students must try to find
a picture or word that describes all that is going on in their heads while the general
population has thousands that they can use to accurately express themselves. Also, not
all students have the ability to use the augmentative communication devices. For
example, children with physical disabilities or fine motor deficits may be unable to press
Effective Communication with Nonverbal Students
