PICTURE EXCHANGE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND ITS EFFECTIVITY TO THE COMMUNICATION OF LEARNERS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM

Abstract

Special education involves the preparation of teaching procedures and materials, and other interventions designed to address the needs of a child with learning differences, disabilities, and giftedness. Autism is a neurological complex condition that affects behavior, socialization and communication of the child. As such, PECS is a form of augmentative and alternative communication that uses pictures, images and symbols which was designed to provide aid and support to children with autism in enhancing their communication skills. In particular, this research assessed the extent of effectivity of Pictures Exchange Communication System to the communication skills of learners with Autism Spectrum Disorder at Bright Gem Learning Center, Consolacion Central - SPED Center, and Talamban Elementary School - SPED Center as basis for development plan. The study utilized a mixed type of research method: Quantitative - Qualitative research and Thematic Synthesis approach. This research study has 30 learner respondents, 30 parent/ guardian respondents, and three SPED teachers involved. The questionnaire for learners with ASD was adapted from the National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder, Picture Exchange Communication System: Steps for Implementation. For the parent/ guardian respondents and SpEd teachers, research-made questionnaires are provided to assess the effectivity of PECS in the communication of learners with ASD at home and at school settings. The study found out that the Physically Assisted Exchange was considered to be highly effective. On the contrary, Responding to What They Want, resulted to be moderately effective. Generally, the study concluded that PECS can enhance the communication skills of learners with ASD. It is strongly recommended, especially to non-verbal learners, to use PECS as one of the techniques to improve their receptive and expressive communication skills.