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Alternative Communication Methods (5cr)

Code

General information


Enrollment
01.04.2026 - 30.04.2026
Registration for introductions has not started yet.
Timing
20.05.2026 - 31.07.2026
The implementation has not yet started.
Number of ECTS credits allocated
5 cr
Local portion
0 cr
Virtual portion
5 cr
Mode of delivery
Online learning
Unit
School of Health and Social Studies
Teaching languages
Finnish
Seats
20 - 40
Degree programmes
Bachelor's Degree Programme in Physiotherapy
Bachelor's Degree Programme in Rehabilitation Counselling
Bachelor's Degree Programme in Social Services
Bachelor's Degree Programme in Occupational Therapy
Teachers
Anu Halonen
Miia Riihimäki
Teacher in charge
Jaana Ritsilä
Groups
ZJA26KS
Avoin AMK, sote
Course
SZ00CJ06

Unfortunately, no reservations were found for the realization Alternative Communication Methods SZ00CJ06-3002. It's possible that the reservations have not yet been published or that the realization is intended to be completed independently.

Evaluation scale

Pass/Fail

Objective

The purpose of the course is to learn basic information about communication challenges and individual needs. The course introduces various methods of interaction that can be utilized in social and health care work.

Learning outcomes of the course:

You will be able to identify communication challenges experienced by social and health care clients. You will be familiar with the most common alternative and digital communication methods, your skills in using them will have diversified, and you will know concrete ways to engage in dialogue with clients who have communication challenges. You will also be familiar with the principles of accessibility and the types of multidisciplinary services, assistive devices, and methods available, and you will be able to guide clients in applying for and using them.

Execution methods

The course is totally online, without any study sessions on campus. The course includes webinars and independent distant study.

Content

The course covers the communication challenges of people with speech difficulties. Among the alternative methods of communication, the course will look at gesture and object communication, picture, and symbol communication, drawing communication and easy language. The principles of social stories and cartoon conversation will also be explored, as well as structured communication to support executive functions. The course will also introduce the services and devices available to people with speech impairments.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

The student knows the special features of communication of people with speech impairment. The student can identify the most common alternative communication methods and their usefulness from the point of view of the client's support needs. The student can use the knowledge gained in the course to understand the client's perspective and finding suitable communication methods for clients. Student knows services and devices for people with speech impairments.

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