AACs: PECS versus Proloquo2GO

AACs: PECS versus Proloquo2GO

Early childhood developmental delay, or developmental dysphasia, is an umbrella term used to describe a range of severe difficulties affecting language development in children. One of the most common forms of developmental dysphasia is caused by an acquired brain injury, such as meningitis or stroke. This article will discuss the pros and cons of each communication system currently utilized at The Lizard Centre: Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and Proloquo20Go.

1. Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) A system used to communicate with a voice-activated keyboard. PECS enables individuals with early childhood developmental delay to express their thoughts and feelings, essential daily tasks, and basic communication. The PECS function allows individuals to interact with

a personal computer by calling up images of things they want others to know or symbols representing their thoughts. They types what they want, the image appears on the screen, and the individual communicates with icons or visuals of objects or actions.

Pros - PECS is easy to use and understand, so it is a sound starter system.

- They can use PECS anywhere because it is not reliant on a computer.

- Because it is voice-activated, communication can go at the user's pace.

- PECS can be used by those who have low vision or are blind.

Cons - Can be expensive to set up and maintain.

- The number of icons is limited.

- The personalized keyboard takes a long time to set up.

- PECS is not very portable, especially if it needs to be updated regularly.

2. Proloquo20Go A system used to communicate with the assistance of an Apple device or Android mobile phone with the app loaded on it. It is a system that provides a voice for individuals with early childhood developmental delay with severe speech and language difficulties, who typically would use a non-verbal AAC device. The app types words for them on their behalf speech-generating device, and the app also acts as an augmentative and alternative communication tool.

Pros - Proloquo20Go is easy to modify as the user grows and learns.

- Proloquo20Go is touch screen operated, allowing for easy operation.

- They can stream it with other apps on the same device.

- Proloquo20Go is small and lightweight so that you can take it anywhere.

- It is perfect to use when an individual has no phone or device.

Cons - It costs a lot of money, although tax credits can offset this.

- It is dependent on an external device and app, so it is not always available offline.

- The app may cause problems with the touch screen if it stays on too long.

Early childhood developmental delay is not necessarily permanent.

Children who have been delayed in their development due to complications of congenital abnormalities, diseases, or lack of Speech and Language can benefit from early intervention. Infants with language delay should be assessed by a professional who can determine whether intervention is appropriate for the individual according to their age, ability, and prior performance.

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