Lesson 2: Communication Aids and Strategies Using Tools of Technology PDF

**LESSON 2: COMMUNICATION AIDS AND STRATEGIES USING TOOLS OF TECHNOLOGY** "**Communication** is considered the lifeblood, a key component for every organization to achieve its goals. There are various ways to communicate, and one of them is through the use of audiovisual aids. Most presentations ar...

**LESSON 2: COMMUNICATION AIDS AND STRATEGIES USING TOOLS OF TECHNOLOGY** "**Communication** is considered the lifeblood, a key component for every organization to achieve its goals. There are various ways to communicate, and one of them is through the use of audiovisual aids. Most presentations are often in audiovisual format where the speaker provides the audio as he or she speaks, while the images or objects projected on the screen form the visual part." **COMMUNICATION AIDS:** Helps an individual to communicate more effectively with people around them. it is also known as **Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)** devices, which is defined as 'a huge range of techniques which support or replace spoken communication; these include, among others, gestures, signs, symbols, word boards, communication boards and books. **Two main types of AAC system** 1\. **Unaided communication**: does not use additional equipment. Body language, gesture, vocalization, and signing are rather typically observed. **Communication Support** - **Interpreters** -- can act as a translator between you and the person or people you are communicating with. - **Interveners and communicator guides** -- are specially trained to work one to-one with people in a number of ways, including adding communication 2\. **Aided communication**: uses equipment, ranging from low- to high- technology methods, with pictures and symbols often used, or together with words and available hardware options. While a low-tech method of communication like a simple book with a few pages of pictures or symbols would be a communication aid, the term 'device' would only describe a more high- tech solution. An electronic communication aid can be a dedicated device or can be a standard computer software including devices which are increasingly used to help people communicate. **Communication Support** a\. **Low-tech method** -- is simple, laminated communication book to carry around with a few pages of pictures and symbols. b\. **High-tech method** -- an electronic communication aid that made use of devices. - **Hearing aids** -- don't restore hearing but can help to make the sounds you need to hear louder. - **Cochlear implants** -- a surgically implanted hearing devices, used for those who have a profound hearing loss and whom hearing aids are not effective. - **Telecommunications** -- some telephones, including smartphones, have increased amplification, hearing aid compatibility, magnification software and braille displays. - **Emerging technologies** -- including purpose-designed software for laptops and tablets, are being increasingly used to develop communication skills. **Technology Tools** **a. Using Traditional Visual and Audio Media** - **Overhead Transparencies** - Transparencies are clear acetate pages displayed by an overhead projector during a speech. - **Flip Chart** - a large pad paper that rest on an easel allowing the speaker to record. - **White board/chalk board** - these materials can also help you achieve the same outcome. - **Document Camera** - is a projector device. - **Video** - showing a video clip can elicit an emotional response from the audience. - **Handouts** - are sheet of paper containing relevant information that some speakers use in conjunction with other presentation media. - **Sound recordings** - sounds, like visual images can stimulate mental images triggering the imagination and setting mood. **b. Using Computer Technology** - **Digital Slides** - a presentation software commonly using PowerPoint. It allows computer users to display information in multimedia presentation. - **Real - Time Web Access** - use to demonstrate how to do something special on the web such as researching an idea. **Strategies Using Tools of Technology:** a\. Keep it simple b\. Emphasize your key ideas c\. Show what you cannot say d\. Use close up shots and other images e\. Keep the number of images you present manageable f\. Combine variety with coherence g\. Use large lettering **PowerPoint Presentation Tips:** **a. Go for creativity** - create your own design, try different combination and let your creativity flow. **b. Colors are nice** - flat colors are beautiful and contrast is your friend. **c. Use good fonts** - Comic Sans and Georgia will do. **d. Text is evil** - use the 10-20-30 rule, too many text will catch the attention of the audience from you. **e. Images say more than a thousand words** - make the images more powerful. select appropriate backgrounds **f. Big is beautiful** - think big, think bold. **g. Info graphics are amazing** - use simple info graphics. **h. Get inspired** - remember your ultimate goal. Deliver a memorable, effective presentation. **Tips in using Presentation Media:** a\. Practice with your Media. b\. Consider your room and audience. c\. Speak to your audience not your media **Why use communication aids (audio-visuals)** **a. Helps Retain Information.** Information presented orally and visually is proven to be retained longer than when it is only presented orally. **b. Provides Efficient Communication.** There are types of information that are better conveyed with the use of graphics rather than in writing or orally. The use of charts, diagrams, graphs, videos, animation and other forms of audiovisual presentation are an effective way to deliver a message without taking so much time. It also prevents information overload, as large chunks of data can be simplified, making them easier to comprehend while time is put to good use. **c. Better Understanding of New Information.** Technology has offered various ways to deliver information effectively. In training sessions or in classroom lectures, images in addition to words help trainees and or students understand concepts easier. Audiovisual aids can catch the attention and have a powerful effect in terms of transferring ideas. **d. Simplifies Complex Reports or Concepts.** Audiovisual aids help in understanding reports or topics better and easier. Graphics help illustrate what words say, and as the saying goes, "a picture paints a thousand words.