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Communication Skills
The goal of communication training is to reduce loneliness and provide access
to information. Following an
assessment, instruction may be provided in one or more of the alternative
communication methods described below.
Sign Language is a visual, gestural language using
a variety of hand shapes and hand movements to convey ideas. Signs may be
read visually at varying distances and with modifications in rate and size to
accommodate impaired sight. Persons
who are deaf and have little or no vision can use touch sign language.
The Manual Alphabet (finger spelling) consists of twenty-six hand shapes, one
for each letter of the alphabet. The
interpreter spells each word letter by letter into one or both hands of the
consumer. A small number of people use
knuckle reading, placing a hand on top of the interpreter’s to feel the
movements of the knuckles/fingers.
Print-on-palm is a method by which the interpreter uses her index finger to
print block letters on the palm of the consumer. Letters may be printed on the wrist, arm,
or back, in cases of impaired tactile sensitivity. Another option is to use the consumer’s
finger to print or write on a table or other surface.
A Raised Alphabet Card is a sturdy, pocket-sized card. The interpreter places the consumer’s
finger on raised alphabet letters to spell out a brief message.
A Braille-Print Card consists of rows of Braille letters and numbers with
corresponding print symbols above each.
The interpreter locates the desired letter and places the finger of
the consumer on the Braille letters to spell out a short message.
Print-to-Braille devices are portable communication tools used by consumers
who have learned Braille (a system of tactile reading using embossed
dots). Using a device such as a Tellatouch, TeleBraille or
Speech Braille Communicator, the interpreter types a message on a print
keyboard, which appears on a Braille display used by the consumer.
Writing aids and methods of communication include dry erase boards, bold line
paper, paper with dark markers, and a variety of handwriting guides.
For more information about the deaf-blind
specific communication methods and devices described above, or for
information on less frequently used modes, such as the alphabet glove, Tadoma method, two-hand (British) manual alphabet, or
Morse code, contact our Center.
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