Communication is vital for everyone to get by in life. Being able to communicate allows for everyone to have a voice, whether that is through verbal communication, AAC devices, sign language, or visual aids. Communication helps people build trust and relationships, not only in school but in everyday life.
The Importance of Communication
Not everyone can communicate in the same way, which is why learning how to communicate and how others communicate can be very beneficial in life. There are different devices use, like using Minspeak, iPad, visual boards, low/high technology, etc. All of which serve a huge purpose; to help people communicate.
When watching the videos, I noticed how people struggled just to get their basic needs met.
Hi how are you today?
Good!
No matter the device or level of technology people are still able to find a way to communicate and speak. Each had their own inclination and yearning to speak!
Some were able to make full sentences on their device, others were able to point to images to get what they needed. We are able to understand those who can't speak, and that is something amazing.
It was really powerful to see how many people would fight or stand up for their loved one to get and use a device. Maya's mom was and continues to be an advocate for her daughter at 10 months old. That kind of support it remarkable and inspiring. You can see the excitement on their faces when they were able to communicate with their loved ones. They felt heard, they now have a voice and that must have felt so empowering. Although the devices can be frustrating at first, to learn, to understand and to teach it is so beneficial for someone who felt like they were never heard or understood.
Having a disability shouldn't define you. I learned the importance of communication devices. It not only gave them a voice but took away the burden of feeling unheard or misheard. With the use of these devices, it can empower the person using it.
Having a disability doesn't mean you cannot thrive or function in society. Communication plays a huge role in that and being able to communicate, in any form, is essential.
Throughout our class and videos, we have watched, you can see how many people give up on those with disabilities, instead of finding ways to support and help them. The fact that doctors were able to throw their hands up and say there was nothing else they can do is heartbreaking. People with disabilities need support, they need people to advocate for them. The multitude of ways we have for people to communicate it remarkable and something I hope can keep improving.