RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
A1 Marková, Kamila
A1 Jedlinská, Martina
T1 AUTISM - THE PICTURE EXCHANGE COMMUNICATION SYSTÉM
JF Profese Online
YR 2012
VO 5
IS 1
SP 16
OP 19
DO 10.5507/pol.2012.004
UL https://profeseonline.upol.cz/en/artkey/pol-201201-0004.php
AB Aim: Czech picture exchange communication system called VOKS is a modified method of communication system PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) which was created in Chicago in the USA. The research aim was to assess user satisfaction with this method, to evaluate difficulties with acquiring the VOKS methods and to map compliance with recommended practice. A "user" is understood as somebody who uses VOKS method to communicate with clients suffering from ASD. The research section presents results of the survey which took place in selected five specialised facilities and four schools all over the Czech Republic.Methods: The survey covered the period from September 2010 to December 2010. We designed our own questionnaire which contained 24 questions. The criterion for inclusion of respondents in the research was current professional working experience with the VOKS method. The research sample consisted of 54 respondents.Results: The results of the analysis revealed that most respondents are satisfied with the VOKS methods. Differences are evident in the time when they adopted VOKS methods in practice. With this particular sample of respondents the time necessary to master the VOKS method could not be established. Accurate compliance with recommended procedures proved to be problematic. The main reason for poor compliance with the procedures in practice is the necessity to adapt it for an individual client, staff shortages and insufficient time for training. A major problem is the application of the method when the trained staff is on holiday.Conclusion: The research indicates that for the time being the respondents consider the VOKS method to be a suitable method for communicating with clients with a variety of speech disorders. VOKS method can help workers in special facilities to improve nursing care and to better meet clients' needs.