ABSTRACT
'Supported generalisation' means helping students to make the connection between 'learned in smiLE Therapy' and 'to use in other situations in school and out of school'. Research indicates that the process of generalising communication skills learned in one context to a variety of different contexts is particularly difficult for deaf students. In both the parent and staff group, explain that the practitioners have done the 'easy part' of teaching the new skills. In a staff group, allow time for the discussion and sharing of ideas on how to provide practice opportunities. Scoring the Communication Skills Checklist (CSC) gives a clear visual indication to parents or staff of progress made. If the parent or staff member has not had the opportunity yet to try out supported generalisation, agree another date, say in three weeks' time, to contact them again. People should give copies of the blank CSC to parents and staff, and encourage them to photocopy more as needed.
