Course Details
Delivered through distance learning, this Certificate in Communication Strategies for Non-verbal Children explores augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies and provides you with the knowledge to help the child to effectively use their particular system.
Fee
€350.00Start Date
Start AnytimeLocation(s)
Portobello InstituteCourse Duration
1 monthOverview
The inability to effectively communicate has been found to affect numerous daily life tasks. Researchers have found that individuals with disabilities experience less success than able-bodied individuals with respect to employment, education, independent living and relationships. It is essential therefore to offer augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to non-verbal children and have the knowledge to help the child to effectively use their particular system.
By choosing to study this course with Portobello Institute, students will have access to course materials from our online learning centre for the duration of the course. The course materials for this certified course are thorough and easy to read and can be downloaded in your own time and from the comfort of your own home. You will also be assigned a personal tutor for the duration of the course who will help you with any challenges you may encounter. In addition you will be able to upload assignments online and receive online feedback. You can use our online learning centre from any computer that has internet access. However, access to a computer is not compulsory as we can arrange for everything to be processed by post. There is an administration fee of €30 for this service.
Who will recognise my qualification?
Upon completion of this course you will hold a Portobello Institute Certificate in Communications Strategies for non-verbal children.
What will I study during this Communication Strategies for Non-verbal Children course?
During this course you will study the following topics
- What is involved in communication
- What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
- Types of AAC (Aided and Unaided Communication)
- Types of AAC Communications
- Types of AAC Communicators
- Role of language and literacy in using AAC
- Benefits of using AAC
- Problems faced by children using AAC
- Strategies to improve the use of different types of AAC
- What is PECS
- Specific stages/phases of PECS
- Skills required for a child to effectively use PECS
- Importance and value of introducing PECS to the child
Who will I learn from?
Personal Academic Tutor
Each student is assigned a personal academic tutor to support you throughout your learning journey. They are available to offer you telephone and email support at any time. You can arrange to meet them for further one to one guidance at a time convenient to you.
Many of our past graduates have found it is the opportunity to ask a simple question, seek direction and submit a draft of their assessment that supported them most to successful completion. Emailing your tutor at any stage during your programme to ask a query or submit a draft of your assessment supports you to achieve your personal best throughout your studies with Portobello.
This level of one to one support is a particular benefit to choosing Portobello as your Institute of choice to complete your studies.
How will I learn?
Course Structure
This course is delivered through distance learning, enabling you to work at your own pace. Each student has 12 months to successfully complete this course.
Speak to an expert
Choosing a course that will lead you to your career of choice is a significant decision. Understanding the delivery modes, supports available, career opportunities and further study options are all key considerations when making your choice. Our course adviser team are experts in the courses Portobello offers – they will guide you through the detail and support you with any queries you may have.
It is important you make the right choice for you and choose the Institute and course that will best suit your needs.
Your Consultant
Jennifer Matteazzi
About Jenny
How long are you working in Portobello?
I have been working for Portobello Institute for over 5 years now.
What do you enjoy about working in Portobello?
I love the interaction with students. Every day I get to meet different individuals and learners who are looking to change their lives and I get to be the person who advises them on the best programme to take. It is a fantastic feeling to be part of their journey. For many learners this is a huge decision and I get to be the person who supports them in making that decision. There is an incredible sense of pride when I see our learners graduate and achieve their education goals.
What inspires you about working in education?
I believe that education is impowering and it can often change people’s lives. It increases the learner’s confidence and it allows the learner to reach their full potential. Coming back to education hugely lifts the learner’s self esteem.
Have you a story that you recall that touched you/made you laugh/made you cry?
One particular lady struggled with dyslexia all her life. Her disability really affected her years in school, her career choices and when this learner approached Portobello Institute I worked with her to establish the best way forward, the right course for her was without a doubt in childcare. This lady registered on the course and she needed a lot of hand holding throughout her studies from both myself and the academic team. I recall that the day of her graduation, she received the “Student of Year” award. We were all thrilled and delighted for her! This learner has since gone on to open a very successful Montessori setting.
How do you feel when you have helped a student reach a decision on their course choice?
I am there to be the deciding factor for our learners. We support people in making the right choice of programme for them. We reassure them the whole way and we support them throughout. It is a very rewarding feeling to be part of this process.
How do I apply?
Entry to this course is by direct application to the college. There are no previous academic or entry requirements.
Application Process
Step 1
Complete the online booking form.
Step 2
You will receive log in details to access course materials once your application and tuition fees have been received.
Fees & Payment Options
Fees
Course Price
Per academic year.
Full Payment
Total amount payable.
