Learn About PECS
Understanding the Picture Exchange Communication System
What is PECS?
The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is an augmentative and alternative communication system developed for individuals with autism and other communication difficulties. PECS teaches functional communication through the exchange of pictures, starting with simple exchanges and building to complex sentence structures.
The 6 Phases of PECS
1
How to Communicate
Physical exchange of single picture for desired item
Learning Objectives
- Pick up picture
- Reach toward partner
- Release picture in partner's hand
Success Criteria
- 80% independent exchanges across 3 sessions
2
Distance and Persistence
Generalize exchange across distance and people
Learning Objectives
- Travel to communication book
- Travel to partner
- Persist when partner not attending
Success Criteria
- Exchange from various distances
- Exchange with multiple partners
3
Picture Discrimination
Select from multiple pictures
Learning Objectives
- Discriminate between 2 pictures
- Discriminate in larger array
- Reduce picture size
Success Criteria
- 80% accuracy with 5+ pictures in array
4
Sentence Structure
Construct sentences on sentence strip
Learning Objectives
- Use 'I want' starter
- Attach picture to strip
- Exchange strip
- Read sentence aloud
Success Criteria
- Independently builds and exchanges sentence strips
5
Responsive Requesting
Answer 'What do you want?'
Learning Objectives
- Respond to 'What do you want?'
- Spontaneous requesting
- Mixed trial mastery
Success Criteria
- Responds within 5 seconds
- Maintains spontaneous requesting
6
Commenting
Comment in response to questions
Learning Objectives
- 'I see' responses
- 'I hear' responses
- Spontaneous comments
- Answer varied questions
Success Criteria
- Uses multiple comment starters
- Spontaneous commenting emerges
Tips for Success
- 1Practice in a calm, distraction-free environment
- 2Use highly motivating items that the learner wants
- 3Provide immediate reinforcement after successful exchanges
- 4Keep sessions short and positive (5-15 minutes)
- 5Be consistent with prompting and fading strategies