Communications Methods
The communication method used by an individual depends on the degree of sensory loss, their communication ability and their preference of communication method.
|
Method |
Description |
|
Signed English: |
Sign language which directly represents spoken English. |
|
Auslan: |
Sign language used by the Australian Deaf Community with its own rules about sign/word order. |
|
Makaton: |
Simplified version of signed English based on 200 key signs. |
|
Tactile signing: |
Sign language received by placing hands over the signing hands. |
|
Deafblind finger spelling: |
The alphabet is received on the palm and fingers. |
|
Print on palm: |
Letters are traced onto the palm of the person who is deafblind. |
|
Writing / typing: |
The standard alphabet is written using extra large and bold fonts. |
|
Co-active signing: |
The hands of the person who is deafblind are shaped by another person to form different signs. |
|
Total Communication: |
Signing and talking simultaneously. |
|
On-body signing: |
The body of the person who is deafblind is used to help complete the sign formation. |
|
Clear speech and lip-reading: |
Information is gained by watching the oral movements of a person talking. |
|
Computer Pictograph / Picture Symbol Systems: |
Computer generated picture symbols are used to convey concepts and messages. |
|
Object Symbols: |
Physical objects, which represent activities or concepts, are used to convey messages. |
|
Braille: |
A system of raised dots is used to represent letters, words and numbers. |

Communication methods
