Overview:
Autism is a brain-based intellectual disability with a prenatal onset (Wehby). Although there are no medical tests that can be used to diagnose this disorder, there are a few different social tests that psychologists and families can use to diagnose their children. Along with behavioral deficits that result in repetitive activities and movements and a resistance to change, one of the largest issues that children with Autism is an inability/difficult time learning to communicate and have social interactions.
Although there is a range of different approaches to help teach communication skills, The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is one of the most effective. In fact, according to the study The Effect of Picture Communication Symbols on the Verbal Comprehension of Commands by Young Children with Autism by Janet Preis, the PECS system for learning communication results in higher achievement in communication skills compared to other aided systems. PECS uses pictures and words (like the image to the left) in order to learn how to communicate through a 6 phase process. Students have the potential of going from zero communication ability to asking for objects and making observations without being prompted. This website aims to give insight and new understanding to parents, students, or anyone who is interested in Autism and the PECS intervention.
Although there is a range of different approaches to help teach communication skills, The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is one of the most effective. In fact, according to the study The Effect of Picture Communication Symbols on the Verbal Comprehension of Commands by Young Children with Autism by Janet Preis, the PECS system for learning communication results in higher achievement in communication skills compared to other aided systems. PECS uses pictures and words (like the image to the left) in order to learn how to communicate through a 6 phase process. Students have the potential of going from zero communication ability to asking for objects and making observations without being prompted. This website aims to give insight and new understanding to parents, students, or anyone who is interested in Autism and the PECS intervention.
http://trainland.tripod.com/pecs7.gif