Design to Learn

Online Courses

Please Note: These courses will be offered through Portland State University as of Summer Quarter, 2011 and will no longer be available through OHSU's Design to Learn Projects. Current enrollees must complete the OHSU-offered courses by June 15,2011

Presymbolic Communication (non-credit)
This course addresses the use of pre-symbolic means of communication by individuals who are not able to use symbols to communicate. The course is based on years of practical research conducted in homes and public school classrooms involving individuals of all ages who experience a wide range of disabilities.

Tangible Symbol Systems (non-credit)
Most people communicate through spoken and written words. Some people use alternative systems such as sign language, Braille or high-tech electronic devices. These systems all require an understanding of an abstract symbol system consisting of arbitrary sounds or characters. Tangible Symbol Systems were designed for people who are unable to understand the meaning of the abstract symbols used in formal language systems. Tangible symbols are two- and three-dimensional symbols that have a concrete relationship to their referents.

Both courses are offered as self-paced noncredit learning opportunities. You may register online at any time and go through the materials on your own timetable for two months. Each course is accompanied by a book. The cost is $165.

We also offer a reduced rate for groups of 10 or more.  The cost is $125/ student.  Registration online is not available for groups.  For group registration and payment information please contact Mayling Dixon at 503-494-2619 or Toll free at 1-888-909-4030 or by email dixonma@ohsu.edu.

To Preview our Classes:

Presymbolic Communication Class Demonstration
We invite you to view the first two units of the Presymbolic class.  The demonstration class is being made available to help you determine if this class will be useful to you.  To view the demonstration class, click here [provide link] and login using this username and password:

User name: presymbolic_demo
Password: symbol

Tangible Symbol Systems Class Demonstration
We invite you to view the first two units of the Tangible Symbol Systems class.  The demonstration class is being made available to help you determine if this class will be useful to you.  To view the demonstration class, click here [provide link] and login using this username and password:

User name: symbols_demo
Password: symbol