DIGITAL LIBRARY
THE NEEDS OF PEOPLE WITH IMPAIRED COMMUNICATION SKILLS IN THE CONTEXT OF SAFETY: ANALYSIS AND POSSIBILITIES FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION INTERVENTION
Palacký University, Faculty of Education (CZECH REPUBLIC)
About this paper:
Appears in: ICERI2023 Proceedings
Publication year: 2023
Pages: 1337-1343
ISBN: 978-84-09-55942-8
ISSN: 2340-1095
doi: 10.21125/iceri.2023.0443
Conference name: 16th annual International Conference of Education, Research and Innovation
Dates: 13-15 November, 2023
Location: Seville, Spain
Abstract:
Introduction:
Communication is essential for normal functioning in everyday life. It is a tool that allows us to express thoughts, feelings, needs, and requests. However, individuals with impaired communication skills often face a number of challenges related to safety. This paper focuses on analyzing the challenges and needs of these persons based on the identification, description, and analysis of safety attributes (i.e., features, symbols, basic characteristics of persons or objects) in the context of persons with impaired communication ability. On the basis of the results obtained, the aim was to find a space for special education intervention.

Methodology.
The research is designed as qualitative. The data collection methods were 8 semi-structured interviews and 1 case study to illustrate the interviews. The semi-structured interviews were conducted in the Zoom environment. Zoom is a software (application) that allows video interviews and simultaneous recording of the interview. The reason for choosing this platform was the possibility of an arbitrary date for the implementation of the data collection. Another indisputable advantage was that the interviews in the online environment could take place in the participants' natural environment or one that was also safe for them. The interview data were transcribed using Transcriptor, which allows for the automatic transcription of the audio. After transcription, the data were sorted according to their importance. The interviews thus processed were then analyzed. The semi-structured interviews are illustrated by including a personal case study, which focuses on the past, factors, and influences that preceded or are part of the current state of the person or persons under study. Specifically, we have chosen a case study in the form of a life history that captures a person's entire life, working with what we call turning points. This is an event or period of time that an individual describes as a change away from the time (state) in which they have been living.

Conclusion:
Our research has shown that people with impaired communication skills face many safety challenges. They have difficulty with everyday activities, which can lead to concerns about their health. Social support and competent staff are crucial for them. They also need functional communication and access to adapted information. They may be sensitive to sensory overload and external stimuli and may be more prone to accidents. Understanding and acceptance of others are important to them. They have difficulty with change and uncertainty and may have a variety of fears. They often face secondary consequences of their disability, such as health problems or social isolation. A safe and calm home, partner relationships, and family can be an important source of support and security. They may also seek comfort in daydreaming or attaching to certain objects. It is important that they are prepared for emergencies and have adequate support in these situations.
Keywords:
People with impaired communication skills, safety, special education.