Which is an effective strategy to support students with multiple disabilities in communication?

Teaching peers basic signs to improve communication is an effective strategy to support students with multiple disabilities in communication for several reasons. This approach encourages an inclusive environment where all students can participate in the communication process. By training peers to use basic signs, students with multiple disabilities can engage more easily with their classmates, creating social connections and facilitating interactions.

Moreover, this strategy promotes understanding and empathy among students, as they learn to communicate in ways that are accessible to their peers. It empowers students with communication challenges to express themselves, leading to increased confidence and motivation. Encouraging peer involvement not only strengthens communication skills but also fosters a sense of belonging within the classroom community.

In contrast, relying exclusively on assistive technology might limit face-to-face interactions and social engagement. Focusing solely on speech development does not account for the varied communication needs that students with multiple disabilities may have. Additionally, using only verbal instructions can create barriers for those who have difficulties processing spoken language. Each of these other strategies may not fully address the diverse communication needs of all students, making the selected strategy the most effective.