Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are severely challenged by their difficulties with language and communication. Some research suggests that augmented language input, whereby a speaking communication partner adopts and uses an augmentative or alternative communication (AAC) system for both expressive and receptive language, can be effective with these individuals. The Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display (PODD) system is both a method and tool for developing and utilizing augmented language input. As a promising practice, PODD provides strategies to support the design, production, and implementation of communication systems that enable genuine communication for a variety of functions in all daily environments. PODD includes strategies to minimize some of the common difficulties associated with the use of multi-level communication books. Specifically, PODD: (a) supports the individual who relies on AAC and his/her communication partners to move efficiently between pages to locate required vocabulary, (b) reduces the time required to access vocabulary to produce multi-symbol messages, (c) provides a strategy for quick access to predictable messages, and (d) enables access to a broad range of vocabulary for spontaneous, unpredicted messages. This article explores the use of the PODD system for individuals with ASD, with emphasis on features that address the unique communication challenges faced by these individuals.
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