Pyramid Educational Consultants UK provides an internationally renowned communication system for children and adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related disabilities. With a central belief and passionate commitment to providing the keys to effective communication, they are the leaders of the ‘communication pack’.
The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) works on a simple yet highly effective series of images and interactive work. PECS focuses on the initiation of communication and the design of effective educational environments. PECS is used in an ever growing number of educational environments the world over, an estimated 100,000 people have used the system. PECS UK’s team of experts present a unique blend of broad spectrum applied behaviour analysis along with the knowledge to be able to assist users in developing functional communication skills. Taking into account the individual learners needs PECS UK always look to find the most effective way to get the environment harmonious to its learning methods.
What is PECS?
PECS was developed in 1985 as a unique communication intervention package for pre-school children with ASD. It is now used successfully for adults and children with a wide range of communication difficulties. PECS is an inexpensive communication tool, which can be used in large educational facilities and individual homes alike. It works by teaching an individual to give a picture of a desired item to a communicative partner, who immediately recognises the exchange as a request.
For example if a user wants a drink then they will give the communicative partner a picture of a drink, the communicative partner then gives the user a drink. PECS can be used to request all sorts of items and as communication skills develop sentences can be built up and users begin to comment on their environment such as ‘I see’ or ‘I hear’. What makes the system so unique and so effective, is that verbal prompts are never used, thus building immediate initiation and avoiding prompt dependency. Spontaneous communication is the goal of PECS.
Why is it so effective and doesn’t it stop users learning to speak?
PECS is considered as an effective intervention because it uses real life learning in an interactive way. It gives the individual the tools needed to communicate with others, to form sentences and, in advanced stages, answer questions and to comment. The Delaware Autistic Programme found that 76% of all children who used PECS went on to acquire speech, using speech singularly or alongside a picture based system such as PECS.
How can you get the most from PECS?
For PECS to work effectively initial training from the team at PECS UK is required. This takes the form of a two day workshop which is open to both professionals and parents. It is important that the system is used in the correct way, ensuring the best possible outcomes. PECS works best when all those involved in a users care work in the same way, providing positive environment for individuals to learn effectively. PECS training ensures that everyone knows the best way in which to make PECS a success.
We hope this informal CPD article was of help, for more information from Pyramid Educational Consultants please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively please visit the CPD Industry Hubs for more Continuing Professional Development.
