Low Tech Systems come in a variety of sizes, shapes and for a variety of functions. A low tech augmentative communication system might take the form of simple flash cards, menus, diaries, passports, books, boards and place mats etc.
The content of a low tech aid can be photographs, digital images, symbols, text or any combination. There are a number of recognised symbol systems now in electronic format. The most widely used in the UK is the Boardmaker software. This program contains a large library of Picture Communication Symbols arranged by categories, by Mayer Johnson.
It is important to decide what will be available on a low tech aid. Age and capabilities of the user must be considered, also the contexts in which the aid will be used.
Good design and layout are important for both aesthetic and functional reasons. A clear, well-organised, and attractive layout is more likely to encourage use than one which is cluttered and boring.
Colour can also be a powerful element in the design of low tech materials. This may be especially helpful for visually impaired or young learners. Colour can also highlight specific areas of the display.
Low tech systems can be static or dynamic. Traditionally, low tech boards or books have a finite set of vocabulary. Talking Mats, developed at the University of Stirling, is a low tech aid which is dynamic in nature. This framework can be used with any symbol system as well as encouraging conversation and discussion with an individual/group.
We have prepared some low tech resources which you can download from our downloads page. These are created within Boardmaker, and you will need the Boardmaker software installed on your computer to open them.
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