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What is Multisensory Instruction?

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Summary

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Multisensory instruction is a teaching method that uses different senses (like seeing, hearing, and touching) to help people learn better. This approach can be more effective for students who have difficulty with traditional teaching methods, making learning more interesting and engaging.

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Frequently Asked Question

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What is the benefit of using multisensory instruction?

Multisensory instruction provides multiple pathways for students to absorb information, which can be especially helpful for those who struggle with traditional, lecture-style teaching methods. It can also make learning more engaging and enjoyable.

Who can benefit from multisensory instruction?

Multisensory instruction can be beneficial for a wide range of learners, including those with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning disabilities. However, it can also be helpful for students without learning disabilities, as it provides a more dynamic and interactive learning experience.

How can teachers implement multisensory instruction in the classroom?

Teachers can incorporate multisensory instruction in a variety of ways, such as using visual aids, hands-on activities, and kinesthetic and tactile learning. They can also use specialized programs and tools, like Orton-Gillingham or manipulatives, to help students learn in a multisensory way.

Scientific Definition

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Multisensory instruction enhances learning by involving multiple senses, such as visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile. By combining activities that engage these senses, it creates a more interactive and effective learning experience. For instance, a teacher may use a whiteboard to visually present information, while simultaneously speaking it out loud and encouraging students to physically participate. This approach offers different pathways for students to absorb the material, benefiting those who struggle with conventional lecture-style teaching. Multisensory instruction is an inclusive and dynamic teaching method that accommodates diverse learning styles, making the learning process engaging and enjoyable.

Real World Example of Multisensory Instruction

Meet Susie, a curious and creative learner who enjoys exploring the world around her. Today, her teacher introduced a new concept using multisensory instruction, making the learning experience exciting and engaging. Here’s how it unfolded:

  • Visual aids: Susie’s teacher showed her a colorful poster with pictures and words to help her understand the topic better.
  • Auditory elements: The teacher played a catchy song related to the concept, allowing Susie to sing along and reinforce her understanding.
  • Kinesthetic involvement: Susie participated in a hands-on activity, where she built models using blocks to represent different parts of the concept.
  • Tactile activities: Susie explored textured materials, like sand and clay, to create sensory connections and reinforce her learning.

Through these multisensory experiences, Susie not only grasped the concept but also had fun while doing so. Multisensory instruction ignited her imagination and made the learning process enjoyable, leaving a lasting impression on her curious mind.

How Multisensory Instruction is Used in Real World

Multisensory instruction is an effective teaching approach that engages multiple senses to enhance learning. By incorporating various sensory activities, students can better understand and retain information. Here are some examples of how multisensory instruction works:

  • Visual aids: Presenting information through visual cues, such as charts, diagrams, and illustrations.
  • Auditory elements: Utilizing spoken instructions, discussions, and audio recordings to reinforce concepts.
  • Kinesthetic involvement: Encouraging students to physically interact with the material, like through hands-on experiments or role-playing.
  • Tactile activities: Incorporating touch-based experiences, such as manipulating objects or using textured materials.

Multisensory instruction creates a dynamic learning environment where students can actively participate and absorb information through multiple sensory channels. Goally, our tablet, facilitates multisensory instruction with interactive apps for life and language skills. Through visual schedules, gamified learning, and skill-training videos, Goally engages kids with different senses for effective learning.

 

This post was originally published on Feb. 15, 2023. It was updated on July 6, 2023.