INTEGRATED SCHOOL:

An integrated school is an educational institution that promotes inclusivity by providing education to students from diverse backgrounds, abilities, or learning styles in the same learning environment. In such schools, students with and without disabilities, students from different racial and ethnic backgrounds, students with different language abilities, and students with varying academic levels all learn together in the same classrooms.

The concept of integration in education stems from the belief that all students have a right to access quality education and that diversity within the classroom enriches the learning experience for everyone. Integrated schools aim to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that fosters understanding, empathy, and cooperation among students of different backgrounds and abilities.

Benefits of integrated schools may include:

Now that we have discussed about what integrated school is, let us have a look on its benefits.

1. Inclusive Learning:

Students with disabilities or special educational needs have the opportunity to learn alongside their peers without feeling isolated or segregated.

2. Social Skills Development:

Integrated schools provide opportunities for students to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, promoting social skills and a sense of belonging.

3. Increased Empathy and Understanding:

Exposure to diversity helps students develop empathy, tolerance, and a better understanding of different cultures, abilities, and perspectives.

4. Academic Benefits:

Research suggests that students in integrated schools may perform better academically and have improved problem-solving abilities.

5. Community Building:

Integrated schools contribute to the development of an inclusive community that values diversity and fosters a positive school culture.

6. Preparation for Real World:

In an increasingly diverse society, integrated schools prepare students for the real world, where they will encounter people from various backgrounds and abilities.

It is important to note that successful integration requires careful planning, appropriate support, and specialized services for students with disabilities or unique needs to ensure that they can fully participate in the learning process. Additionally, integrated schools must promote an inclusive and supportive school culture that actively discourages discrimination and fosters acceptance and appreciation of diversity.

INTRODUCTION TO AUGMENTATIVE AND ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION (AAC)

Augmentative communication refers to a set of methods and tools used to enhance or supplement a person's ability to communicate effectively when they have difficulty expressing themselves using spoken language. This type of communication support is often employed by individuals with communication disorders or conditions that impact their speech, such as autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injuries, or other developmental or neurological conditions.

The main goal of augmentative communication is to provide individuals with a means of expressing their thoughts, needs, and desires, thus empowering them to participate more fully in social interactions, education, and daily activities. This helps improve their overall quality of life and reduces frustration and isolation that may result from the inability to communicate verbally.

Various augmentative communication methods and systems exist, ranging from low-tech to high-tech solutions. Some common examples include:

1. Picture Communication Boards:

These are low-tech systems that consist of a board or set of cards with pictures or symbols representing different words, objects, or actions. The individual can point to the pictures to convey their message.

2. Communication Books:

Similar to picture communication boards, communication books contain symbols or pictures organized in a book format, enabling users to flip through pages to find the appropriate communication aid.

3. Communication Apps:

With the advent of technology, there are numerous communication apps available for smartphones and tablets. These apps often use symbols, text-to-speech, or customizable visual aids to facilitate communication.

4. Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs):

SGDs are electronic devices that use synthesized speech to convert text or symbols into spoken language. Some SGDs also come with eye-tracking technology to assist individuals with limited physical mobility.

5. Sign Language:

For individuals who are unable to use spoken language effectively, sign language can be a form of augmentative communication. Different sign languages exist around the world, such as American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL).

6. Computer-Based Systems:

More advanced systems involve the use of specialized software on computers that allow users to type or select words, phrases, or symbols, which are then converted into speech output.

CONCLUSION

The choice of augmentative communication system depends on the individual's specific needs, abilities, and preferences. It is essential for caregivers, educators, and therapists to work collaboratively with the person using the system to ensure its effectiveness and to continuously tailor the method to meet their evolving communication needs.