Understanding the Power of PECS
The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a pioneering augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) approach designed to help individuals with limited or no spoken language develop functional communication skills. Originating in the United States in 1985, PECS has since become a globally recognized method, especially effective with children and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This system leverages visual symbols—pictures or icons—to enable users to express their wants, needs, and thoughts, ultimately fostering greater independence and social participation.
Overview and Development of PECS
What is PECS and how does it work as a communication protocol?
PECS, which stands for Picture Exchange Communication System, is an augmentative and alternative communication system designed to support individuals who have difficulty with spoken language. Its primary focus is to teach users how to communicate their wants, needs, and thoughts through exchanging pictures, symbols, or photographs. This method promotes spontaneous, functional communication by enabling users to initiate requests for items or activities, respond to questions, and make comments about their environment.
The system is rooted in behavioral principles, emphasizing teaching via systematic prompting, reinforcement, and error correction. It begins with simple exchanges—such as trading a picture of a desired snack for the actual snack—and gradually progresses to constructing sentences and engaging in more complex social interactions.
What are the main phases and stages involved in implementing PECS?
PECS is structured into six progressive phases, each targeting specific communication skills:
| Phase | Focus Area | Description | Example Skill |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Initiating Requests | Teaching the individual to spontaneously exchange a picture of a preferred item with a communication partner | Reaching out and handing a picture of a toy to request it |
| 2 | Distance and Persistence | Encouraging the learner to approach and persist in exchanging pictures from a distance or when challenged | Traveling across the room to exchange a picture with a teacher |
| 3 | Picture Discrimination | Teaching the learner to select the correct picture from multiple options | Choosing the picture of a specific snack among several pictures |
| 4 | Sentence Structure | Combining pictures to form simple sentences like “I want” plus the item | Using a sentence strip to say “I want” with a picture of a ball |
| 5 | Answering Questions | Responding to questions such as “What do you want?” or “What do you see?” | Picking the correct picture in response to a question |
| 6 | Commenting | Encouraging spontaneous comments about their environment or experiences | Putting a picture of a sun on a comment board or sentence strip |
Each stage builds upon skills learned in previous phases, with systematic reinforcement and error correction techniques to promote fluent, functional communication.
History and origin of PECS
PECS was developed in 1984 by Lori Frost and Dr. Andrew Bondy at the Delaware Autism Program. Recognizing the limitations of traditional communication methods that relied heavily on teacher initiation, the creators aimed to foster independence and spontaneous interactions in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They observed that many existing programs did not teach children to initiate communication, which is crucial for social engagement.
The initial implementation of PECS focused on preschool children diagnosed with autism. Early studies and practical applications demonstrated that PECS could significantly enhance communication skills, reduce problem behaviors, and promote social interaction.
Founders and initial implementation
Dr. Andrew Bondy, a speech-language pathologist, and Lori Frost, a speech-language pathologist with a background in AAC, collaborated to design PECS based on applied behavior analysis principles, particularly B.F. Skinner’s theory of verbal behavior. Their goal was to develop a simple, low-cost, effective tool that could be easily taught by different professionals and even parents.
PECS was first used in the Delaware Autism Program, where it quickly showed promise. Its success led to wider adoption and eventually to the formalization of a training protocol with six specific phases that could be systematically taught.
Evolution and global adoption
Since its inception in 1985, PECS has expanded far beyond its original setting. It is now used worldwide in schools, clinics, homes, and community settings to assist individuals with a range of cognitive, physical, and communication challenges.
Research supports its effectiveness in developing early communication skills, encouraging spontaneous language use, and supporting the generalization of communication across environments. Over 240 research articles substantiate its use as an evidence-based practice.
Professionals such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and educators frequently train in PECS techniques through workshops provided by Pyramid Educational Consultants. Parents are encouraged to learn and implement PECS at home to ensure consistency and reinforce skills.
PECS’s simplicity, low cost, and adaptability contribute to its ongoing international popularity. Its development continues to evolve with emerging research, including adaptations for adults and the integration with video modeling to enhance learning outcomes.
Core Principles and Teaching Methodology
How is PECS used with individuals with autism or other communication difficulties?
PECS, or the Picture Exchange Communication System, is a widely used augmentative and alternative communication tool designed for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other communication challenges. It supports these individuals in developing functional, intentional communication through the exchange of pictures or symbols. The teaching process involves structured phases, beginning with simple picture exchanges where the user learns to give a picture of a desired item to a communication partner in exchange for that item.
As learners progress, they are taught to approach their teacher or communication partner to initiate interactions, discriminate between different pictures, and construct sentences using picture strips. This systematic approach encourages independence and spontaneous communication, enabling individuals to express needs, wants, and comments effectively. The benefits include not only improved communication but also reductions in frustration-related behaviors, increased social interaction, and development of verbal language skills. PECS is adaptable for users of varying ages and abilities, making it a versatile and practical intervention across diverse settings such as home, school, and community environments.
What are the benefits and effectiveness of using PECS?
Research underscores the strong evidence supporting PECS as an effective communication system. It is especially beneficial in facilitating requesting skills, with many children demonstrating rapid acquisition—often reaching near 100% requesting success after just a few sessions. One of PECS’s core advantages is its ability to promote speech development alongside nonverbal communication, serving as a stepping stone toward verbal expression.
Studies using single-subject designs have shown that PECS not only enhances immediate communication but also fosters long-term skill retention and generalization across different contexts. Additionally, it contributes to ancillary improvements, such as increased social behaviors and decreased problem behaviors like tantrums and aggression. Its visual and behavioral reinforcement techniques make it appealing and engaging for users, leading to more consistent use and success.
Behavioral principles underlying PECS, including reinforcement and error correction methods
PECS is grounded in the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and behaviorist theories, primarily based on B.F. Skinner’s work in 'Verbal Behavior.' The foundation of PECS involves systematic reinforcement strategies to encourage and strengthen communication behaviors. When a learner successfully exchanges a picture to request an item or action, they receive a preferred item, activity, or positive interaction, which reinforces the behavior.
Error correction is a crucial component of the PECS protocol. It involves specific prompting strategies to guide the learner back to the correct behavior, such as physical prompts in early phases and fading prompts as independence increases. If an error occurs, the facilitator uses systematic error correction procedures—like gentle prompting to the correct picture or providing additional cues—to help the learner achieve the correct response. This structured approach ensures that the learner remains engaged, motivated, and progresses steadily toward more complex communication goals.
Systematic instructional approach
The PECS teaching protocol is a carefully structured, step-by-step process. It consists of six phases:
| Phase | Focus Area | Description | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | How to Communicate | Teaching the learner to exchange a picture for an item | Uses physical prompts initially, fading over time |
| 2 | Distance and Persistence | Encouraging the learner to seek out the communication partner | Builds skills in approaching and initiating communication |
| 3 | Picture Discrimination | Differentiating between multiple pictures | Teaching matching and selecting the correct picture |
| 4 | Sentence Structure | Constructing simple sentences with picture strips | Combining images to form requests or comments |
| 5 | Answering Questions | Responding to questions like 'What do you want?' | Expanding communicative responses |
| 6 | Commenting | Expressing thoughts about the environment | Enhancing social interactions |
Throughout these phases, the use of reinforcement and prompts is tailored to the individual’s progress. Prompts include physical guidance in early stages and are gradually faded to promote independence. Reinforcement involves rewarding successful communication attempts with tangible items, social praise, or activities that motivate the learner.
PECS’s systematic methodology, grounded in behavioral science, ensures that learners develop functional, spontaneous communication skills that can generalize across various contexts, ultimately supporting their participation and inclusion in daily life.
Implementation Strategies and Resources
Are resources and training available for implementing PECS?
Implementing PECS successfully relies heavily on proper training and access to resources. Fortunately, extensive resources and training programs are available for professionals, parents, and caregivers interested in using PECS effectively. These workshops focus on educating participants about the comprehensive six-phase protocol, which includes teaching picture exchanges, discrimination, sentence construction, and commenting.
The training programs are grounded in evidence-based practices such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and B.F. Skinner’s Verbal Behavior approach. They offer detailed manuals, visual supports, activity packets, and starter kits that facilitate hands-on learning. Typically, participants can attend Level 1 and Level 2 workshops that feature demonstrations, role-play exercises, and video examples—ensuring they grasp how to implement PECS with fidelity. These sessions emphasize generalization across settings, error correction strategies, and transition techniques, such as moving from picture exchanges to speech-generating devices.
Beyond live workshops, numerous online courses, webinars, and downloadable resources are available on the PECS official website. These platforms support ongoing learning and provide opportunities for certified CEUs and certificates of completion. This wide range of resources ensures that users are well-equipped to foster effective, spontaneous communication in naturalistic environments.
Who can implement PECS?
PECS is designed to be accessible to a broad spectrum of individuals. Trained professionals like speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, special educators, and behavioral analysts are primary implementers. However, parents, caregivers, teachers, siblings, and peers can also effectively use PECS once they have received appropriate training.
A crucial aspect of PECS is its versatility and ease of use. Because it requires minimal motor coordination and does not depend on sign language, it can be adapted for children and adults with a range of physical and cognitive limitations. The system’s portability and low-cost nature make it suitable for both home and educational settings, ensuring consistent communication opportunities across different environments.
The adaptability of PECS expands the capacity for early intervention, social integration, and independent functioning. With proper training, almost anyone involved in the individual’s daily life can implement PECS to support functional communication.
Cost and resource considerations
One of the notable advantages of PECS is its affordability and minimal resource requirements. The initial costs typically include purchasing starter kits, picture cards, and manual materials, which are reasonably priced when compared to other augmentative communication devices.
Training workshops may incur fees, but many organizations, including Pyramid Educational Consultants, offer a range of options, sometimes subsidized or bundled with instructional resources. Many training sessions and online resources are accessible, helping reduce financial barriers, especially for families or schools with limited budgets.
PECS’s simplicity means that once trained, users can maintain and expand communication skills without the ongoing need for expensive or complex technology. Its low-cost, portable nature makes it practical for various settings and populations, facilitating broad implementation.
Settings for PECS use
PECS is remarkably versatile, being applied effectively in multiple environments. In educational settings, it supports classroom communication and social interaction. At home, families use PECS to enhance daily communication and reduce frustrations. Clinical environments see PECS as a vital tool for establishing foundational requesting behaviors and social skills. Community settings, including recreational or recreational programs, also incorporate PECS to foster community participation and independence.
This adaptability across settings underscores PECS’s role as a practical, evidence-based system for promoting functional communication in children and adults with diverse needs.
| Aspect | Details | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Resources & Training | Manuals, workshops, online courses | Emphasizes fidelity, generalization, and transition skills |
| Implementers | Professionals, parents, teachers | Suitable for all involved in daily routines |
| Cost & Resources | Low-cost kits, subsidized training | Affordable, portable, easy to use |
| Application Settings | Schools, homes, clinics, community | Supports social skills, reduces problem behaviors |
| Effectiveness | Supported by over 240 research articles | Enhances spontaneous communication, social skills, speech development |
PECS remains an accessible, versatile, and research-supported AAC system, making it an invaluable resource for individuals with limited or no speech across a wide range of environments.
The Future and Broader Impact of PECS
How effective is PECS across different age groups?
The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) was initially developed for young children with autism, but its benefits extend well beyond early childhood. Research indicates that PECS can be successfully implemented with individuals of various ages, including adolescents and adults, who face challenges in spoken communication. The system helps foster functional communication, reduces frustration, and enhances social interactions among older users.
Evidence from studies shows that even adults with developmental disabilities can benefit from PECS, especially when integrated with other supportive strategies. As users progress through the phases, they acquire skills that promote independence and social participation. Moreover, PECS's simplicity and low cost make it accessible for diverse settings, from schools to community programs.
How is PECS being integrated with modern technology?
Increasingly, PECS is being combined with digital innovations to improve its usability and reach. The adoption of tablets and smartphones equipped with dedicated PECS apps allows users to carry their communication tools easily and access a wide variety of symbols instantly. Such technological integration enhances the naturalness and flexibility of communication, encouraging spontaneous interactions.
Video modeling is another emerging approach that complements PECS. It involves using videos to demonstrate communication behaviors, which can improve learning outcomes and motivation. Combining PECS with these new technologies offers personalized solutions tailored to individual needs, making augmentative communication more engaging and effective.
What does emerging research suggest about adult use and technological advancements?
Recent studies highlight the potential of PECS for adult populations, particularly those with cognitive and physical challenges who have limited or no speech. With age-appropriate modifications and technological support, PECS can promote social engagement, functional communication, and quality of life for adults.
Further research is exploring how digital tools can enhance PECS training and implementation. For example, apps that simulate the phases of PECS or incorporate voice output can accelerate skill development and generalization. The integration of PECS principles into high-tech AAC devices signifies a promising future where communication aids are more accessible, versatile, and tailored to individual preferences.
Summarized Overview of PECS Impact
| Aspect | Current Evidence and Outlook | Future Directions |
|---|---|---|
| Effectiveness across age groups | Proven benefits for children, adolescents, and adults with autism and other challenges | Expanded research supporting adult use and diverse populations |
| Integration with technology | Increasing use of tablets, apps, and video modeling to enhance PECS | Development of innovative digital platforms and AI-assisted tools |
| Emerging research and adult use | Growing recognition of PECS benefits beyond childhood | Broader adoption and customization for adult users and specific needs |
The ongoing development and validation of PECS demonstrate its vital role in augmentative communication. As research continues and technology advances, PECS's scope and impact are poised to grow, offering more inclusive and effective strategies for individuals with communication challenges across all ages.
Advancing Communication Skills for All
The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) stands as a testament to how visual tools can transform communication for individuals with speech and language challenges. Since its inception in 1985, PECS has demonstrated remarkable versatility and effectiveness across diverse populations and settings. Its structured phases build essential skills gradually, promoting independence, social interaction, and language development. Supported by extensive research, PECS continues to evolve with technological advances and broader applications, ensuring that individuals of all ages have access to meaningful, functional communication. As awareness and resources grow, PECS remains a vital component of effective communication intervention, empowering people to express themselves and connect with others.
References
- The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
- PECS®: An Evidence-Based Practice
- What Is the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)? A ...
- Using the picture exchange communication system (PECS) with ...
- Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
- Picture Exchange Communication System - Wikipedia
- PECS - Evidence-Based Practices
- Exploring the Use of the Picture Exchange Communication System ...
