Visual Learning and Supports
For many students who are weak auditory learners, visual supports become increasingly important for following directions, learning concepts, and communication. Visual supports can be gestural, pictorial, written words, or a combination. In the past, BoardMaker, from Mayer-Johnson, has been the dominating product. However, other companies have acknowledged the need and developed products that are quickly becoming available. Why is it important to have a variety of pictures?
People tune in and understand visually depicted concepts differently. Some children only need to see a roof to understand it's a building that sells pizza or a large M for hamburgers, chicken nuggets, and fries. Others may need to see a photograph of a pizza in order to get the idea. Although we tend to believe there is a hierarchy to understanding visually (i.e. objects - TOBIs* - photographs - line drawings, etc.) there is no research or documented studies showing the efficacy of such thought. If the student does not understand the meaning of the visual support, we teach the meaning by consistently using the visual support during meaningful activities. If we are teaching the meaning, we should be using a variety of graphics depending on the ability and interest of the child.
*TOBIs - "True Object Based Icons" Usually larger than the normal two-dimensional picture and are cut out in the actual shape of the object. The symbol and shape are thought to give the person additional information for understanding.
What are we teaching by using visual supports? Are we teaching the graphic or teaching the concept/label?
For some students, the type of visual support becomes important. Whether it is the student's visual perception, visual acuity, or cognitive ability, the visual should be specific to the student to provide the best-meaning possible. Take a little extra time when deciding upon what visual to use when teaching.
BoardMaker |
OverBoard |
QuickPicks |
Picture This |
MicroSoft ClipArt |
EyeCons |
American Sign Language |
Simplified Signs |
