Total Communication

Definition

Total communication is an educational philosophy that combines various methods of communication, including spoken language, sign language, body language, and written language, to enhance understanding for individuals with hearing impairments. This approach recognizes that no single method of communication is sufficient for all learners and emphasizes the importance of using multiple modalities to support effective communication and learning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Total communication allows for a more inclusive educational environment by accommodating diverse learning styles and needs among individuals with hearing impairments.
2. The philosophy behind total communication is rooted in the belief that combining multiple communication methods can improve comprehension and social interaction.
3. Teachers using total communication strategies often utilize sign language alongside spoken language to support students who may have varying levels of hearing ability.
4. This approach promotes the development of both receptive and expressive communication skills in students, encouraging them to use all available resources to express themselves.
5. Total communication can lead to improved self-esteem and confidence among individuals with hearing impairments as they become more proficient in their communication skills.

Review Questions

• How does total communication support the learning process for individuals with hearing impairments?
  • Total communication supports the learning process by providing multiple avenues for individuals with hearing impairments to engage with information. By combining methods like spoken language, sign language, and written text, educators can cater to different learning preferences and enhance understanding. This multifaceted approach helps ensure that students are not limited by a single mode of communication, making learning more accessible.
• In what ways can total communication be implemented in a classroom setting for students with hearing impairments?
  • Total communication can be implemented in the classroom through the use of various strategies such as incorporating sign language during lessons while speaking, using visual aids like charts and pictures, and encouraging students to use both spoken and signed responses. Teachers can also create an inclusive environment by allowing students to express themselves through different modalities, which fosters engagement and collaboration among peers. This approach ensures that all students have the opportunity to participate fully in classroom activities.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of total communication compared to other single-method approaches for teaching individuals with hearing impairments.
  • The effectiveness of total communication often surpasses single-method approaches like solely using sign language or spoken language because it embraces a more holistic view of communication. By integrating various methods, total communication addresses the unique needs of each learner, providing them with tools that facilitate better comprehension and expression. Evaluating its success involves considering factors such as student engagement, social interaction, and academic performance compared to those taught through isolated methods. Research indicates that students who experience total communication tend to demonstrate enhanced adaptability in various social situations.

Related terms

American Sign Language (ASL): A visual language that uses hand signs, facial expressions, and body language to convey meaning, primarily used by the Deaf community in the United States.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): A set of tools and strategies that assist individuals with speech or language impairments in communicating effectively, which may include symbols, pictures, or electronic devices.

Auditory-Verbal Approach: An educational approach that focuses on using residual hearing through amplification devices to teach children with hearing impairments to listen and speak.