Communication Aids and Strategies Using Tools of Technology

Communication Aids

refer to tools used to support, enhance, or replace speech and writing, which enable individuals to express ideas, share information, and engage in conversations more effectively

Communication Aids

can be simple or complex tools and are designed to assist people with verbal or written communication, as well as to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of communication in various contexts

Communication Aids

A teacher uses visual charts and a projector to make her lecture easier to understand.

Communication Aids

A patient with difficulty speaking uses a communication board to express basic needs.

Unaided Communication

relies on the user's body alone to convey messages

Unaided Communication

includes facial expressions, hand gestures, body stances, sign language, and other non-verbal communication methods

Unaided Communication

no external tools are required

Aided Communication

involves external tools to assist in communication

Aided Communication

ranges from low-tech (e.g., pen and paper) to high-tech (e.g., tablets or specialized speech-generating devices)

Facial expressions, hand gestures, body stances, sign language

Give examples of unaided communication methods.

Low-tech: pen and paper; High-tech: tablets or speech-generating devices

Give one low-tech and one high-tech example of aided communication.

Unaided Communication

During a classroom presentation, Maria raised her eyebrows and crossed her arms to show disapproval without saying a word.

Aided Communication (low-tech)

A patient in the hospital writes “in pain” on a piece of paper to tell the nurse how they feel.

Aided Communication (high-tech)

John uses a tablet application that speaks out loud whatever he types to communicate with his classmates.

Low-Tech Communication Aids

High-Tech Communication Aids

Types of Communication Aids 2

Low-Tech Communication Aids

simple, non-electronic tools that do not require power sources or advanced technology to operate

Low-Tech Communication Aids

rely on manual use and can be used without technical support

High-Tech Communication Aids

more advanced tools that rely on electronic systems, software, or sophisticated technology

High-Tech Communication Aids

include devices that produce spoken or written communication using digital inputs

Low-Tech Communication Aids

usually affordable and low maintenance

Low-Tech Communication Aids

no or minimal need for electricity

Low-Tech Communication Aids

portable and highly adaptable

High-Tech Communication Aids

usually more expensive

High-Tech Communication Aids

require power sources like batteries or electricity

High-Tech Communication Aids

often require training or technical support to use effectively

High-Tech Communication Aids

can provide more extensive communication options (e.g., voice output, text-to-speech)

Traditional Visual and Audio Media

Whiteboards/Chalkboards

Traditional Visual and Audio Media

Flip Charts

Traditional Visual and Audio Media

Posters and Diagrams

Traditional Visual and Audio Media

Models

Traditional Visual and Audio Media

Handouts

Traditional Visual and Audio Media

Overhead Projectors (OHP)

Traditional Visual and Audio Media

Audio Recordings

Traditional Visual and Audio Media

Videos

Whiteboards/Chalkboards

used in classrooms or meetings to visually represent ideas, diagrams, or written text to support communication

Flip Charts

large sheets of paper mounted on an easel, used for illustrating points during presentations or discussions, which help enhance understanding by offering a visual reference

Posters and Diagrams

static visual aids that present information in a summarized, easy-to-understand format

Posters and Diagrams

often used to replace spoken or written explanations in educational or professional contexts

Models

physical representations of objects, concepts, or systems (e.g., 3D models of the human body, architectural models)

Models

replaces or enhances verbal explanations by providing a tangible way to understand complex ideas

Handouts

printed materials (e.g., flyers, brochures, worksheets) given to an audience during lectures, meetings, or presentations

Handouts

supports written or spoken communication by providing key points in a takeaway format

Overhead Projectors (OHP)

transparencies are projected onto a screen for visual presentations

Overhead Projectors (OHP)

helps to enhance communication by displaying information to a group of people clearly

Audio Recordings

that provide a way for people to access written content through listening, thus supporting individuals who are visually impaired or have reading difficulties

Videos

recorded or live-action footage that conveys information visually and audibly

Videos

replaces spoken or written communication by presenting ideas, instructions, or stories in a dynamic, engaging format

• Text Messaging

• Instant Messaging Apps

• Email

• Video Conferencing Tools

• Social Media Platforms

• Speech-to-Text Software

• Voice Assistants

• Collaborative Tools

Technology-based Communication Aids (8)

Text Messaging

• a mobile communication tool that allows users to send short written messages via SMS or messaging apps

Text Messaging

• replaces verbal communication by providing a quick and convenient way to send written messages

Instant Messaging Apps

• apps like Messenger and Telegram real-time communication via text, often including features for file sharing, voice notes, and group chats.

Instant Messaging Apps

• provides a faster, more informal method of communication than email, while still supporting collaboration in professional and personal settings.

Email

• a widely used digital communication tool that enables users to send and receive written messages, attachments, and documents over the internet (e.g., Gmail, Outlook).

Email

• enhances formal and professional communication by allowing for detailed written exchanges, file sharing, and collaboration

Video Conferencing Tools

• applications like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet that allow for real-time audio-visual communication over the internet

Video Conferencing Tools

• replaces in-person meetings by providing a virtual face-to-face communication environment, enabling interaction between individuals in different locations.

Social Media Platforms

online platforms like Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn that allow users to communicate through posts, comments, images, and videos.

Social Media Platforms

• supports both casual and professional communication, enabling people to share ideas, news, and media in real-time across a global audience

Speech-to-Text Software

technology like Dragon NaturallySpeaking or built-in tools on smartphones and computers that convert spoken words into written text.

Speech-to-Text Software

replaces manual writing or typing for individuals who have difficulty with these tasks, enhancing accessibility and efficiency in communication.

Voice Assistants (e.g., Siri, Alexa)

AI-powered devices that recognize voice commands and provide verbal responses or perform tasks like sending messages or making calls.

Voice Assistants (e.g., Siri, Alexa)

replaces typing or manual input, allowing users to communicate with technology using their voice, making communication more accessible, especially for people with disabilities.

Siri, Alexa

Voice Assistants (e.g., _ 2)

Google Docs, Microsoft 365

Collaborative Tools (e.g., _ 2)

Collaborative Tools

platforms that allow multiple users to write, edit, and collaborate on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations in real-time.

Collaborative Tools

enhances written communication by enabling real-time collaboration, feedback, and document sharing, making teamwork more efficient.

Text Messaging

A student quickly sends an SMS to inform their groupmates about a change in meeting time.

Instant Messaging App

A project team uses Messenger to chat, share files, and send voice notes instantly.

Email

A professor sends lecture slides and announcements through Outlook to his students.

Video Conferencing Tool

Employees from different cities meet virtually to discuss company updates using Zoom.

Social Media Platform

A businesswoman posts updates about her products on LinkedIn to reach more professionals.

Speech-to-Text Software

A student dictates their essay aloud, and the software automatically converts it into typed text.

Voice Assistant

A user asks Siri to send a text message while driving, without touching their phone.

Collaborative Tool

Group members edit and comment on a shared document in Google Docs at the same time.

• Improves Understanding

• Increases Engagement and Interaction

• Supports Learning and Development

• Reduces Stress and Anxiety in Communication

• Promotes Inclusivity

Importance of Communication Aids 5

Supports Learning and Development

assists learners in understanding and increases retention of concepts more effectively

Supports Learning and Development

tools like picture boards, charts, and apps support learning by making abstract concepts more concrete

Improves Understanding

can help clarify messages and avoid misunderstandings, especially in complex conversations

Improves Understanding

tools such as visual aids ensure the message is accurately conveyed.

Increases Engagement and Interaction

enhances engagement in conversations by making it easier for individuals to interact

Increases Engagement and Interaction

in classroom settings, aids such as multimedia presentations or interactive whiteboards help stimulate participation and discussion

Reduces Stress and Anxiety in Communication

reduces the frustration or anxiety associated with not being able to express themselves, leading to more confident communication

Promotes Inclusivity

individuals with communication challenges can actively participate in social, academic, and professional settings

Promotes Inclusivity

fosters an inclusive environment for individuals with conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, or aphasia, giving them a voice

1. Choose the right tools

2. Keep it simple

3. Use multimedia wisely

4. Engage your audience

5. Practice with technology

Tips for Using Technology Effectively in Presentations 5