Pragmatic Organization of a Dynamic Display (PODD) Systems

What is a PODD?

A PODD is a alternative language system (Alternative Augmentative Communication device) for an individual with communication challenges. It enables the individual to communicate in many ways in addition to making simple requests. The person utilizing the PODD for communication is also able to continuously expand his or her vocabulary and ability to interact with others throughout all situations. As with spoken language, the individual learning to use the PODD to communicate must be consistently immersed in it by many or all of the people regularly coming in contact with that individual.

For students in school, this means that teachers and paraprofessionals who see the student every day should model the use of the PODD as they speak with that student, and even when speaking with others around that student. This validates the PODD for the student as a form of genuine communication in all situations, not just in staged question-and-answer sessions during instructional time. It is for both receptive and expressive communication.

The best way to understand the PODD system is to attend a training and see it in action. I would highly recommend attending a training given by Gayle Porter or Linda Burkhart, where you will...

1. learn the rationale for and history of the system;
2. be privileged to see some of their videos from longitudinal case studies; and
3. learn about, see, and explore the organization of the PODD system (which is what sets it apart from other picture communication systems)
4. learn how to modify and personalize a PODD for an individual (including individuals with various disabilities)

You can get a head start by checking out my Quick Start Guide as well as the YouTube videos (above) of children beginning to use the PODD system to communicate.