Supporting Communication Development for DeafBlind Children
Earn a Professional Microcredential
Strengthen your knowledge and practical skills for supporting communication development in DeafBlind children with significant support and communication access needs.
This interactive virtual microcredential guides participants through a systematic, collaborative approach to developing and implementing an individualized communication plan. Participants will learn strategies to help DeafBlind students bridge from unconventional to symbolic communication while working collaboratively with the student's educational team.
Upon successful completion of all program requirements, participants will earn the Supporting Communication Development for DeafBlind Children with Significant Support and Access Needs digital badge from Virginia Commonwealth University.
What You Will Learn
Throughout the microcredential, participants will apply what they learn directly to their work with a focus student. The experience includes assessment, communication planning, implementation strategies, and team collaboration.
Pre-Work
Before the first session, participants will:
- Complete a Communication Matrix Assessment
- Complete a Pre-Self Assessment on Essential Components
Session 1: Planning for Communication – Learner Profile
Focus: Understanding the student's unique access needs.
Applied Activity: Begin developing a Communication Learner Portfolio for your focus student.
Session 2: Communication Planning – Embedding Strategies in Routines
Focus: Structuring daily routines to encourage active participation.
Applied Activity: Develop an actionable Communication Plan that strategically integrates communication opportunities throughout the student's school day.
Session 3: Communication in Action – Implementation Strategies
Focus: Practical methods for fostering symbolic communication.
Applied Activity: Select and implement a key communication strategy with your student and educational team.
Session 4: Communication Integration – Team Collaboration
Focus: Peer review, feedback, and team alignment.
Applied Activity: Review and refine your student's Communication Passport through structured peer feedback.
Post-Assessment
Following the four sessions, participants will:
- Complete a Post-Self Assessment on Essential Components
- Update the Communication Matrix to reflect student progression
Earn Your Digital Badge
To earn the VCU digital badge, participants must successfully complete all four components of the microcredential:
- Complete pre-work and post-assessments – Complete the required baseline and wrap-up evaluations.
- Attend all four live virtual sessions – Participate fully in each scheduled cohort session.
- Complete coursework – Complete required intermediate assignments and activities in Canvas.
- Complete practical implementation activities – Develop and refine a student Communication Learner Portfolio.
Fall 2026 Cohort
September–December 2026
7:00–8:00 p.m.
- September 8, 2026
- October 6, 2026
- November 10, 2026
- December 8, 2026
Registration for the Fall 2026 cohort is now open.
Spring 2027 Cohort
January–April 2027
11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Interested in participating in the Spring 2027 cohort? Complete our professional development interest form to receive information when registration becomes available.
Questions or Team Support
Need assistance with the Communication Matrix, the microcredential requirements, or supporting your educational team?
Contact the Virginia DeafBlind Project at vadeafblind@vcu.edu.