Commodity Code Rollers (AM Industries of GA, Inc.) are used in grocery check-out lanes by cashiers and customers using self checkout. They are 4" in diameter and come in various lengths, i.e., 12", 14", 16", 18".
I recall seeing a similar low tech option being used in the 'early days' of AAC (the 1970s ... yes it is hard to believe)…. and yes that was long before the advent of all the wonderful technology currently available to families.
The Commodity Code Roller is intriquing as it holds potential for allowing students to use more limited space to access a larger vocabulary array … just spin to the symbol(s) you wish to communicate. The layout is limited only by your imagination. Need larger symbols ... no problem. Need more space between rows ... can do. When conducting Aided Language Stimulation the communication partner rolls the display to symbols as needed.
By way of example, consider having 48 core words + photo faces of significant people on your roller communication display.
For some students, the communication array can be further expanded by adding fringe vocabulary on an eye gaze frame.A resource providing step-by-step instructions for Constructing an Eye- Gaze Frame using CPVC plastic pipe is available through Teachers Pay Teachers.
Obviously the roller display option is not for everyone … but it may make a big difference for that one student for whom a good fit has been elusive.
As I've mentioned many times before … in AAC it's all about accumulating a 'big bag of tricks'.
Reference:
AM Industries of GA, Inc.
Buford Georgia 30519
770-476-1877
…’til the next post …
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©2019 Carol Goossens’, Ph.D.
Augmentative Communication Consultant
Speech-Language Pathologist
Special Educator
