More Details
Australian Symbols
The Australia/New Zealand version contains symbols such as Australian currency notes and coins; Vegemite; Milo; lamingtons; Hart Walker; and the Australian Sign Language signs for "finish", "more" and "thank you".
Symbol Display Options
* Coloured symbols
* Symbols can be white on a black background
* Symbol sizes and spacing are adjustable
* Symbols can be used with or without text
* Symbol labels can be in one or two languages
* Colour of the text and background can be adjusted
Print Output
* When the computer is connected to a printer, the overlays can be printed out and used on communication light technology resources or electronic communication devices
Programming
* The program will not startup without the original CD in the computer
* In order for the various languages to work, the computer needs to be set up with the correct regional settings and have the appropriate fonts for those languages
* It is possible to design your own grid or choose one of the pre made grids that match your electronic communication device
* To use boards created on previous versions of Boardmaker you will have to import them. Refer to the User's Guide for instructions
* This program can work together with Speaking Dynamically Pro so that any board you create can be used as an on-screen dynamic communication display or activity
Standard Components
* Over 4500 PCS symbols
* Making boards tutorial
* Pre made blank grids
* 44 languages - see suppliers' weblinks for further information
* Instruction manuals
Other Features
* Text appears above the symbol but it is possible to put the text under the symbol and change the label if desired
* Cell background and border colours can be changed and border line thickness can be altered
* Thumbnail feature shows up to 44 pictures simultaneously
* Pictures are sorted in categories
* Paint tools to enable editing, including paint bucket, eraser, pencil, flip and rotate tools within the program
* Templates available for many speech generating devices
* Option to install a library of symbols pertaining to sexuality
* Option to install country-specific symbols such as holidays, famous people, food and currency
Support and Resources
* Boards and other resources made with Boardmaker can be uploaded and downloaded by users at the Adapted Learning website www.adaptedlearning.com
* Suppliers' websites have some free online training videos
* Mayer Johnson has an online searchable knowledge base. See Mayer Johnson weblink
* Check with suppliers about training and support available locally
Languages
* Each Picture Communication Symbol is supported by 44 languages and can be searched in all languages and placed in a board or activity with any of these languages
* Additional labeling in any language may be added to the symbol. You can place symbols with no label, one language above or below the symbol or any two languages above or below the symbol
Factors To Consider
Programming
* Training to use this resource efficiently is recommended.
* Consider client needs and computer requirements when deciding the version of Boardmaker to purchase.
* The standard version of Boardmaker is good where visual overlays for communication light technology displays are needed. These can include communication boards, books, timetables, routines, social stories and talking mats.
* Boardmaker Plus has additional features such as voice output, animations and interactive resource templates for communication and learning activities. See Boardmaker Plus weblink for further information.
* Speaking Dynamically Pro is designed to enable use of Boardmaker as software for speech generating communication devices/ computers. See suppliers websites for further information.