MEGA Cross Categorical Special Education Practice Test

How should a special education teacher best support a student with communication difficulties due to a TBI?

1. Encouraging the use of assistive technology

2. Limiting their communication to written tasks

3. Reducing interaction with peers

4. Focusing on non-verbal communication only

The correct answer is: Encouraging the use of assistive technology

Supporting a student with communication difficulties resulting from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) involves fostering effective communication methods that accommodate their needs. Encouraging the use of assistive technology is particularly beneficial because these tools can enhance the student’s ability to express themselves and interact with others. For instance, speech-generating devices, tablets with communication apps, or software designed for those with communication impairments can significantly bridge the gap caused by their TBI. Assistive technology encourages independence and participation in the classroom by allowing the student to convey thoughts and ideas that may be difficult to articulate verbally. It also helps in creating a more inclusive learning environment, where the student feels empowered to engage with their peers and educators without undue frustration or isolation. Alternative options that limit or focus on specific forms of communication, such as restricting interactions to written tasks, reducing peer interaction, or emphasizing only non-verbal communication, do not fully address the student's needs or promote their overall communication development. They could lead to diminished social skills and further impede the opportunities for effective communication practice, which is crucial for students recovering from a TBI.