Symbols
Messaging
Encoding
Symbol
• is “something that stands for or represents
something else” (Vanderheiden & Yoder,
1986)
• “something else” = Referent
Symbol Characteristics
• Aided vs. Unaided
– Unaided symbols do not require aids or devices for production.
– Aided symbols require some type of external assistance such as
a device for production.
• Iconicity referees to the continuum that describes
symbols by ease of recognition.
– Transparent are the easiest for individuals to recognize.
– Translucent symbols are moderately recognizable once
explained.
– Opaque symbols are the least recognizable and typically are
based on arbitrary associations.
• Intelligibility refers to the extent to which symbols can be
understood by strangers.
Aided Symbol Systems
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Tangible Symbols
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Real Objects
Miniature Objects
Partial Objects
Artificial/Textured Objects
Representation/Graphic Symbols
– Photographs
– Line Drawings
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Blissymbolics,
Rebus Symbols
Picsyms
Picture Communication symbols
Abstract Symbols
– Traditional orthography
– Morse Code
– Braille
Concrete Referents
Abstract Concepts
Aided Symbol Hierarchy
Mirenda & Locke (1989)
PCS
Blissymbolics
Enhanced Blissymbolics