PODD Communication Book Templates - Alternative Access - for Mind Express 5

With varying and evolving levels of linguistic complexity, these communication books support language development while meeting the varied needs of each user (motor, visual and language needs).
The range of PODD communication books supports individuals from first words through to complex syntax.

Note: auditory-only and auditory plus visual scanning PODD communication books designed for people who have visual challenges are not included in this alternative access resource.
Individuals who experience challenges using regular symbol visual presentations will require the Alternative Presentation PODD communication book template resource (currently in development).

Templates are provided to make 22 different alternative access PODD books (20 personal books and 2 group books). 
Support materials for each PODD book include:

• an information file in PDF providing a detailed description of the language level, layout and vocabulary organisation
• one or more construction files in PDF that describe in detail how to print and make each PODD book.

Videos demonstrating the operational procedures to express and methods to model are also provided for each access method.

The templates are the AUS/UK English version (A4 paper size) of the PODD resources created by Gayle Porter, a speech pathologist from Australia with over 40 years of hands-on experience working with people with complex communication needs.

What Are Alternative Access PODD Communication Books?

Unlike Direct Access PODD, which relies on pointing or touch, Alternative Access PODD books are designed for individuals who require different selection methods, such as:

• Partner-Assisted Scanning – A communication partner reads aloud options while the user indicates a choice through eye movement, gestures, or vocalizations
• Switch Scanning – Users activate a switch to move through choices and make selections
• Eye-Gaze Access – Individuals use eye-tracking technology or manual eye-pointing to select vocabulary

With Mind Express 5, these communication books can be fully customized to accommodate different access needs, cognitive abilities and communication goals.

PODD Communication Book Templates - Direct Access are a separate product and can be found at this link. 

This resource includes templates to make 22 different alternative access PODD books (20 personal books and 2 group books). Here is a list of all the books included in this pageset:

• 9 Eye-Gaze Early Functions
• 9 Eye-Gaze Expanded Functions
• 9 PAVS Early Functions
• 9 PAVS Expanded Functions
• 12 PAVS Early Functions
• 12 PAVS Expanded Functions
• 16 Direct Plus PAVS Combination Access
• 16 Eye Gaze Plus PAVS Combination Access
• 20 PAVS Expanded Functions
• 36 PAVS Key Word
• 40 PAVS Key Word
• 48 PAVS Key Word
• 64 PAVS Key Word
• 80 PAVS Key Word
• 100 PAVS Key Word
• 40 CC Key Word
• 48 CC Key Word
• 64 CC Key Word
• 80 CC Expanded Key Word
• 100 + CC Complex Syntax
• Group PAVS – Early Functions – Book Format
• Group PAVS – Expanded Functions – Book Format
• Group PAVS – Early Functions – Vest Format
• Group PAVS – Expanded Functions – Vest Format

Please NOTE: these book templates are for A4, AUS/UK English. They use PCS Symbols (you will need a license for the symbols).

Why Choose Alternative Access PODD books in Mind Express 5?

✔ Supports various access methods including partner-assisted, switch scanning and eye-gaze
✔ Enhances independent communication for individuals with significant physical challenges
✔ Offers customizable scanning and feedback options to improve efficiency
✔ Allows for seamless integration of digital and printed communication books