What does multi-sensory teaching involve?

Multi-sensory teaching involves the engaging of two or more modalities simultaneously, which is essential for enhancing learning and retention. This approach recognizes that learners have diverse preferences and strengths, and by incorporating various senses—such as visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic—educators can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment.

By presenting information through multiple pathways, students are more likely to grasp concepts comfortably and apply them effectively. For instance, combining visual aids (like charts or diagrams) with hands-on activities (such as using manipulatives) and auditory elements (like discussions or storytelling) caters to different types of learners and reinforces the material through diverse means.

This approach contrasts sharply with using a single modality or focusing exclusively on one type of learning, such as visual or auditory, which can limit understanding and engagement. Therefore, the emphasis on simultaneous use of multiple modalities in multi-sensory teaching is foundational to its effectiveness in structured language education.