Communication Disorders
Communication Disorders is a general term that refers to a group of disorders manifested by significant difficulties in language, speech and communication. This includes difficulties in expressive production of sounds, articulation and fluency deficits, difficulty in the acquisition and production of language across modalities (spoken and written), and difficulties in the social use of verbal and nonverbal communication. Limits to effective communication impact social relationships and academic achievement.
Possible characteristics may include:- Difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communication
- Improper use of words and their meanings, inability to express ideas
- Inappropriate grammatical patterns
- Reduced vocabulary and inability to follow directions
- Problems with inappropriate responses in conversation
Guidelines
Avoid speaking for the student: Instead, listen carefully, then repeat what you think you heard to avoid miscommunication. Ask the student to clarify or repeat anything that you did not understand.
Assistive technology: Assistive technology can help students whose physical conditions make verbal communication difficult or impossible. For more information on available tools, please contact Student Accessibility Services.