Implementing the picture exchange communication system (PECS)

Area of Science:

• Speech and Language Therapy
• Developmental Psychology
• Special Education

Background:

• The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) was developed in the USA over a decade ago.
• PECS has recently been introduced and generated significant interest within the field of autistic spectrum disorders (ASD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To address challenges encountered during the establishment of PECS in a special school setting.
• To report observed changes in children with severe learning difficulties using PECS.
• To discuss the applicability of PECS for children without an ASD.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of PECS in a special school environment.
• Observation and reporting of changes in 21 children with severe learning difficulties using PECS.
• Discussion of PECS use in non-autistic populations.

Main Results:

• The paper details the process of establishing PECS within a special school.
• Changes observed in 21 children with severe learning difficulties who were taught to use PECS are presented.
• The study explores the use of PECS with children who do not have an ASD.

Conclusions:

• PECS implementation in a special school setting presents specific challenges and considerations.
• PECS demonstrates potential benefits for children with severe learning difficulties, including those without an ASD.
• Further research is warranted to explore the broader applications of PECS across diverse populations.