Total Communication
Total communication is a communication mode built around the philosophy of what is best for the student. It is most often paired with a Self Contained Classroom, and involves a mixture of oral and manual sign to best utilize residual hearing with a signed support, often through simultaneous communication, or simcom. The method doesn't often focus on the child's ability to speak and enunciate.
PROs |
CONS |
Focuses on giving the child a foundation in language |
Can be inconsistent instructor to instructor. |
Not entirely separate from the oral language that the child's family may utilize, so it can be easier for familial communication |
When using simcom, it's almost impossible to use both modes at the same fluency and rate which could affect student's comprehension if not addressed. |
Individualized language and support |
Less developed speech skills |
Note: the above video on total communication was created in 1987, and is not accurate at all times, due to it's age, such as the use of "hearing impaired" when deaf or heard of hearing is preferable, and because total communication is fluid to the needs of the student. However, it does provide examples of students utilizing total communication in the classroom.