Digital pictograms as an educational tool for supporting students with language difficulties in Basic Education

Authors

  • Viviana Verónica Munive Riofrío Universidad Bolivariana del Ecuador, Ecuador
  • Camilo Galo Tunay Salazar Universidad Bolivariana del Ecuador, Ecuador
  • Nelly Hodelín Amable Universidad Bolivariana del Ecuador, Ecuador

Keywords:

language impairment; augmentative and alternative communication (AAC); digital pictograms; educational inclusion; cerebral palsy

Abstract

Introduction: Language impairment is a condition that significantly limits verbal communication and active participation in the educational process, especially in students with special educational needs. The purpose of this study was to design a Pictographic Communication System (PCS) with digital pictograms to reduce the language impairment of a second-grade student in section “B” of the “Sígsig” Educational Unit, Azuay Province, Ecuador, during the 2024-2025 academic year. Materials and methods: Instruments such as interviews, direct observation, tracking sheets, and validation by two psychologists were used. The population consisted of 14 students, 2 parents, and one teacher; the sample was purposive and focused on one student with a language impairment diagnosed by the Student Counseling Department with cerebral palsy. Results: Difficulties such as limited verbal production, difficulty understanding instructions, and reliance on gestures for communication were identified. Discussion: A pictogram system adapted to their needs was designed and implemented using digital pictograms from an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system. This improved comprehension, word production, facilitated interaction, expression of ideas, and adherence to school routines. Conclusions: The use of digital pictograms from a Pictographic Communication System (PCS) is an effective tool to support communication in students with language impairments.

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Published

2026-04-06

How to Cite

Munive Riofrío, V. V., Tunay Salazar, C. G., & Hodelín Amable, N. (2026). Digital pictograms as an educational tool for supporting students with language difficulties in Basic Education. Maestro Y Sociedad, 23(1), 1228–1240. Retrieved from https://maestroysociedad.uo.edu.cu/index.php/MyS/article/view/7583

Issue

Vol. 23 No. 1 (2026)

Section

Artículos

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Copyright (c) 2026 Viviana Verónica Munive Riofrío, Camilo Galo Tunay Salazar, Nelly Hodelín Amable

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