Appendix 3: Encoding options

Encoding is the process used to increase the number of symbols on a page. By presenting symbols in groups and then clarifying which symbol from the group is intended for communication, many more symbols can be presented on a page.

In the example pages, colour encoding has been used. The learner first looks at the group of symbols and then looks at the dot that is the same colour as the border colour of their target symbol.

While we have used colour encoding with dots (and this is what the templates are based on), other forms of encoding are possible. This may be something to consider if the learner has difficulties perceiving colour information or dislikes the colourful appearance of the pages. You would need to adjust the templates to a different type of encoding before producing pages for the learner's communication book.

Colour encoding with dots

This image represents how colour encoding is used in the guide at Stage Two.

Colour encoding with dots using a muted colour palette

The colour encoding within this guide uses a bright colour palette. So long as the colours chosen are sufficiently distinct from each other, more muted colours could be used if that is something that the learner prefers.

Number encoding

With number encoding, the learner must match numbers instead of colours. In the example below, to say hungry, the learner would first look to the group containing the symbols hungry, hot, thirsty and cold, and then to the large number 1 to signal their choice.

Pattern and shape encoding

Pattern and shape encoding could be considered if the learner does not want to, or is not able to, use colour information or numbers for encoding. The learner must match the pattern / shape of the border to the pattern / shape of the dots in the corners.

This image shows how pattern and shape encoding could look with grey scale versions of the symbols.