Gesture Dictionary
A powerful, yet simple tool within a total AAC system is the Gesture Dictionary. In this blog post, we will explore what a Gesture Dictionary is and how to create and use one effectively.
What is a Gesture Dictionary?
A Gesture Dictionary is a collection of hand and body movements, facial expressions that are associated with specific meanings or concepts that is highly individualized. Everyone uses gestures, however, those gestures are often cultural and not idiosyncratic. For individuals with complex communication needs, their gestures may be nonconventional. Gesture Dictionaries are tailored to an individual's unique communication, making it a highly personalized form of communication support.
Creating a Gesture Dictionary
Gesture dictionaries are easy to make. They can be as simple as three columns with information; what the gesture is, what it may mean, and how the communication partner should respond to the gesture. Another option is to take pictures or video of the student doing the action so that the entire team is very clear on what is meant. There’s even apps available for this express purpose!
1. Assess the Individual's Needs:
- Start by conducting a comprehensive assessment of the complex communicator's current communication, no matter how subtle.
2. Identify Gestures:
- Determine the types of gestures that have meaning, or could become meaningful with teaching, for the individual. This might include hand signs, head nods, facial expressions, or body movements.
3. Associate Meanings:
- Associate specific meanings, words, or concepts with each gesture. Verbally state what you noticed them do and what you are interpreting the meaning of that action to be. Do this consistently to teach them that their actions can be communicative.
4. Reinforce communication:
- Spend time reinforcing the Gesture Dictionary with the individual. Attempt to acknowledge every communicative attempt.
Using a Gesture Dictionary Effectively
1. Integration with other AAC:
- Incorporate the Gesture Dictionary into the individual's total AAC system, making it easily accessible to communication partners to reference. A gesture dictionary is a part of a robust communication system and does not negate the use of other forms of AAC. It is vital for pre-intentional communicators but may remain an important aspect of their AAC system throughout a person’s life.
2. Teach Communication Partners:
- Educate communication partners, such as family members, caregivers, and educators, about the Gesture Dictionary. Encourage them to learn and use the gestures to facilitate communication, and to add other actions as they develop.
3. Consistency and Patience:
- Consistency is key when using Gesture Dictionaries. Encourage the communication partners to acknowledge all communicative attempts.
Gesture Dictionaries are a simple and powerful tool for individuals with complex communication needs, enabling them to express themselves more effectively and independently. Creating and using a Gesture Dictionary requires careful assessment, customization, and ongoing support. By implementing this valuable AAC resource, we can empower complex communicators to engage more fully in their communities and lead richer lives through improved communication.
For more information:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1plLSOW3VtD0CysPOYUSBo6Uf0vpy7I8D/edit#slide=id.p3 ;