What Are The Benefits Of Multimodal Learning Style?

What is Multimodal Learning?

Multimodal learning is a form of learning which involves the use of different types of modalities. Modes are channels through which you provide new information. They may be any informational format that offers new knowledge. For instance, instead of simply sending a salesperson a message on how to turn potential clients, you can design an e-learning course with different modes of instruction: slides with text and images that reinforce the main ideas, a voice-over, and an interactive role-play where students can observe how customers respond (in the form of facial expressions, gestures, and responses) to the strategy they use for communication.

Types of Multimodal Learning

Four significant ways to learn multimodally are auditory, visual, and writing (VARK). Specific experts believe that individuals prefer one method over another; for instance, they are more inclined toward visual learning. However, the evidence to back this is shaky. However, VARK remains an effective model to consider when creating engaging learning content that is diverse and appealing to students.

Visual learning

Visual learning involves using graphs, infographics, cartoons, illustrations, videos, art diagrams, flowcharts, and anything else that stimulates your students’ eyes. Techniques like color-coding data using various fonts and labeling important points using stickers are also part of learning through visuals.

Learning through auditory

The majority of our learning in the field of audio is done by listening to the content. If you are a company that offers training, it could be a podcast or webinar, an audiobook, or even an instructor speaking to learners in person. Discussions in groups or debates about the subjects discussed can also be a part of audio-based learning.

Kinesthetic learning

Kinesthetic learning engages learners through demonstrations, site visits, and multimedia presentations. It’s usually a blend of various kinds of learning; for instance, creating videos combines audio, visual, and kinesthetic capabilities. Diverse methods of multimodal education do not operate in isolation; they interconnect. When considering the sales onboarding scenario we discussed previously, kinesthetic training can also be used to evaluate learners. For instance, our sales rep was required to create a demo video for their evaluation.

Writing and reading

Writing and reading are the kinds of learning we are more familiar with. These include text-based courses, which frequently employ documents, PDF ebooks, and other eBooks. Furthermore, most written exams or assignments, such as true-and-false or multiple-choice questions, fall into this category, too.

Benefits Of The Multimodal Approach

The advantages of learning through multimodal methods are numerous and extensive. Here are a few of the most important benefits:

Improved Retention

One of the most significant advantages is that it could increase retention. When students interact with information in different ways, the information becomes more easily remembered and easy to recall in the future. For instance, a person who can hear information and see it displayed graphically is likely to retain it better than one who only hears it. The ability to retain information is vital in learning, and e-learning has proven to be efficient in this respect. Studies have shown that e-learning can increase retention by 25% to 60%.

Increased Engagement

It can also boost participation by allowing learners to engage with information using methods compatible with their learning style. The learning experience is more satisfying and meaningful. This may result in better learning results.

Accommodation Of Different Learning Styles

As stated, everybody has a different way of learning. Multimodal methods can consider the differences in information by presenting it in various formats. For instance, a person most successful in learning through visual tools could benefit from videos or infographics. In contrast, those who know best by audio means could benefit from podcasts or lectures.

Flexibility

Another benefit is its flexibility. Learners can engage by engaging with the information they are exposed to in a manner that meets their interests and preferences. For instance, an image person can often look over an infographic, whereas an auditory learner may enjoy a show while commuting.

Improved Problem-Solving Skills

Students interacting with information in various ways are more likely to master various problem-solving capabilities. This is because they are exposed to methods of thinking and tackling issues, which helps them become more flexible.

Real-World Relevance

This can make knowledge more relevant in the world of work. By presenting information in a different format, learners can observe how it is applied to various situations and contexts, which can aid them in making connections and using their understanding through practical applications. Overall, the advantages of learning through multimodal methods are apparent. Students can increase retention, boost engagement, adapt to various learning styles, and acquire multiple thinking abilities by engaging with information differently. In addition, the flexibility and relevance to the real world of this method make it an ideal choice for modern students.

How to Create a Multimodal Approach to Learning?

Include Different Media in your courses.

The first step in multimodal learning is incorporating more modes into your course. When designing the course you want to create, consider thinking outside the box and incorporating various formats, such as videos, slides, and audio. It would be best if you began by repurposing what you already have and using resources outside of your company, such as YouTube podcasts and videos that cover the topic of your choice. You can start creating your slides, videos, audio, and interactive educational sessions from there. Additionally, you should invest in an LMS that can handle various content formats, including Word, PowerPoint, PDF, audio, and video.

You can use Blended Learning Techniques.

Blended learning is a powerful method that combines face-to-face training with online instruction using your LMS. It provides all the benefits of interacting directly with students in a class environment with the convenience and ease of eLearning. Blended learning allows you to host a live learning session for learners, upload additional materials on your LMS, and assign them an assignment or test to ensure they understand the subject thoroughly. This lets you easily track who’s attended the training and the session’s effectiveness.

Learners can do Multimodal Assignments.

You can use multimodal learning to use many different assessment methods when teaching. Encourage your learners to make an audio or video presentation that they upload to an LMS and give them guidelines on an essay that they need to write and publish in the LMS, or make the opportunity to let them take it. Multimodal assignments let learners be creative and inspire them to work with different parts of the brain. Cognitive Learning Theory suggests that students are more likely to retain their knowledge when actively involved in learning, and multimodal assignments will produce better results.

Offering Feedback via various Media using your LMS

Sometimes, managers take time to give their team members the Feedback they need in person. This could be because some team members work remotely or are on the move, or maybe you’ve got some general feedback that you have to give to a larger group but cannot talk to each individual. In this case, making the video in a short format and then posting it on your LMS could be a good solution. Sending Feedback via email can be risky as it’s possible to be misinterpreted or misunderstood because the tone of voice is not personal. When you share a video, your audience can hear your positive tone of voice, observe your relaxed manner of speaking, and be assured that your Feedback is positive and well-intentioned.

Multimodal Learning Strategies

Multimodal LLM strategies vary from interactive video tutorials to written resources, simulations, and audio-based learning. They also include collaborative platforms and blended learning methods. Each approach is based on specific strengths and can meet the diverse preferences of companies’ learning and training requirements. Let’s examine this strategy and the examples illustrating multimodal learning within the workplace.

Learning through video

Learning through video is enticing because it can blend auditory and visual stimuli and engage learners effectively. Microlearning videos provide concise details and work well in fast-paced workplaces where employees require fast, easy-to-digest information. Interactive videos that allow participation boost the retention of those with an aptitude for visual learning. Webinars, specifically live sessions that include experts, encourage real-time discussion and interaction and are ideal for examining complicated topics or trends in the industry.

Effective use cases:

• Software training. Microlearning videos that teach software give step-by-step instructions.
• Soft skills development. Interactive videos can simulate communication scenarios for training in negotiation or conflict resolution.
• Sessions for thought leadership. Live webinars, hosted by industry experts, can provide market research and encourage discussion and sharing.

Interactive assessments

Interactive tests are an exciting method of assessing knowledge and abilities. Their flexibility and variety of questions make tests more thorough. Interactive or drag-and-drop quizzes suit process-based learning, requiring students to apply their knowledge.

Effective use cases:

• Assessment of knowledge. Assessments are an essential element of any learning program. They allow you to assess how well students comprehend a topic.
• Knowledge reinforcement. Quizzes help test learners’ understanding and abilities and reinforce the acquisition of new information. For instance, include a quick quiz after providing a massive block of information to help students review and better remember the material.

Simulations of role-play

Role-play simulations provide real-life, immersive environments that allow for learning through experience. They simulate real-world scenarios and provide kinesthetic learners with a safe environment for practicing and testing. Simulations enable learners to apply their theory knowledge in replicas of real-life scenarios, thus improving their decision-making and critical thinking abilities.

Best use cases

• Training on compliance. For instance, you could develop a fire safety training simulation in which the students must determine where to go and what they should do in the event of a fire at an office.
• Customer service training. Employees can experience client interaction and resolve conflicts in a non-risky multimodal learning environment.

Written materials and reading resources

Written resources complement other modes of instruction to provide deeper understanding and references for self-paced learning. Ebooks offer comprehensive guides on extensive topics, whereas curated blogs or articles provide various perspectives and practical examples.

Best use cases for

• Deep dives. Ebooks to provide comprehensive training on specific subjects.
• Practical knowledge. Articles or blogs about case studies that show real-world applications.

Learning through auditory

Aimed at learners who prefer to hear, audio-based learning is an excellent option for students who prefer learning by listening. Podcasts and narrations aid in learning in the field and offer learners the flexibility to learn. They effectively communicate information conversationally and make complicated concepts more understandable.

Best use cases

• Commuter learning. Podcasts on management, leadership, or industry news to learn while on the road.
• Enhance accessibility. Audio narrations and accompanying images provide inclusive multimodal learning experiences.

Learning through collaboration and social networks

Engaging in discussions through group projects, forums, or case studies promotes the development of peer relationships and collaboration. It helps build a sense of community and offers a range of perspectives, improving understanding and problem-solving abilities.

Best use cases for

• Cross-departmental collaboration. Forums on the internet for sharing knowledge and solutions between teams.
• Team-based problem-solving. Collaboration projects or case studies to tackle real-world problems in a team.

Blended learning

Blended learning brings together the strengths of online and in-person instruction. It seamlessly integrates a variety of modalities, creating a flexible learning environment. It usually involves a mix of instructor-led workshops, online modules, Kinesthetic practice, and self-paced exercises.

Best use cases

• Skills reinforcement. I am combining workshops in person and online modules to ensure continuous learning and exercise.
• Hybrid training programs combine in-person or Kinesthetic learning sessions with self-directed online education for flexibility and depth.

Ways to Incorporate Multimodal Learning

Although lessons might be planned differently, following these suggestions can help teachers transition smoothly toward multimodal education.

• Use visual aids. Find graphs or charts, diagrams, and other illustrations that attract students’ attention and help them understand the material from a different perspective.
• They are introducing mixed media. Games, videos, podcasts, and other educational technology tools will widen students’ perspectives and help them understand class concepts.
• Utilize mixed learning possibilities. Teachers new to multimodal learning may ease themselves into it by providing the direct instruction they have been using regularly and then introducing mixed modes via the learning management software.
• Allow students to be in charge of their education. Multimodal learning is a multimodal approach to learning. The obligation to be attentive to learning different learning styles is on the students as much as the educators. Choice boards allow teachers to incorporate differentiation and motivate students to discover their strengths and identify their paths to success.
• Please don’t overdo it. Students don’t have to learn every method every single day of the week. The influx of learning options can overwhelm students and slow their learning. Understanding students’ needs will help teachers determine the appropriate balance of stimulating but manageable learning media.

Students are diverse, so the methods teachers employ to engage them must be equally diverse. Multimodal learning may be how teachers can observe every student’s passion come to life and flourish within their classes.

Examples of Multimodal Learning

In practical terms, how do you create content for learning that caters to different learning styles? Below are three highly engaging learning materials that will help your company in every stage of learning, from onboarding to customer education programs.

Gamification

Gamification is a highly efficient learning tool since it lets employees engage with the subject matter and gives them an experience of achievement and growth throughout the learning process. If learners have fun while receiving immediate Feedback, they are more likely to remember the information. How can games affect the learning styles of each?

• Most games include a visual element that helps learners remain engaged and retain the information.
• It’s simple to incorporate audio in games that assist auditory learners in understanding and comprehending new concepts.
• Readers and writers can be enticed by the need to input answers or interact with text-based components, such as written instructions or dialogue.
• Kinesthetic learners gain from games that let them apply their new knowledge in real-world situations.

The majority of games also have the element of repetition. This is much easier for players to grasp when playing the game than in real life. For instance, this repeated element of repeating the same challenge over and over again on more challenging levels can help learners of all styles remember the latest knowledge.

Cases from real life

Implementing new knowledge in a realistic setting is among the most effective methods of reinforcing learning. A learning and development program could consist of case studies, exercises, or challenges that allow the employee to use the newly acquired skills in the workplace. Real-world scenarios are beneficial for kinesthetic students. However, they could be helpful to other types of learners as well:

• Visual learners can observe these new skills in practice, whether via demonstrations, case studies, or even by taking on the task themselves.
• Reading and writing learners can review past experiences or follow instructions on applying the new skill at work. They can also take notes or create a list of tasks.
• Auditory learners can record instructions in audible or speak in their voice. They may also be paired with a colleague to explain the procedure to their colleagues.

Rapid application of new information is essential for employees to remember information, making employee training more efficient.

Multimedia content

Multimedia lets you draw in various types of learners in one part of the content. For example, a movie may contain images, audio, and text that appeal to all four types of learning. When you are using multimedia content:

• Utilize graphic images to connect with visual learners
• Write texts, subtitles, and boxes with typed notes to assist learners who read or write
• Use speech and sound to make it easy for auditory learners
• Include hands-on activities and demonstrations within the content to connect with kinesthetic learners.

Multimedia content lets you provide new information to various learners quickly and efficiently.

Conclusion

Multimodal learning involves learning via multimedia content, exciting activities, and games. It’s a versatile learning approach that can be employed offline and online. However, implementing multimodal learning requires expert knowledge on multiple fronts. As such, institutions need personalized media and video content regularly. They also require high-quality instructional designers who can plan every lesson effectively. If you are also looking to integrate multimodal learning, contact Xonique now! We have many years of experience creating high-quality multimedia educational content and instructional designs. Contrasting traditional one-dimensional teaching methods, multimodal learning employs various techniques – videos, infographics, podcasts, and simulations – to present information. Beyond visual or auditory instruction alone, multimodal learning engages students by drawing upon different modalities simultaneously and creatively. This article will introduce multimodal AI, its benefits to companies, the most widely implemented methods of implementation, and how you can apply these programs in your workplace. Let’s get started.