What is multimodal learning?

Multimodal learning combines various learning methods, such as text, images, audio, and similar modalities, to transfer knowledge and skills to learners. As a learning provider, implementing multimodal learning strategies can accommodate diverse learning preferences, which can attract potential customers or enhance internal upskilling initiatives.

 

The opportunities for multimodal learning 

Multimodal learning encompasses teaching methods that engage the sensory system. It is characterised by the use of multiple learning and teaching modes to explain concepts, transfer knowledge, or present arguments. In other words, the learning sessions are centred around different modalities like text, images, and audio. Closely related to this is the so-called VARK model that outlines four different learners and how they learn best. We explore this together later in the article. 

If you are offering online learning, many platforms already have features that allow for different modalities. These modes, like for instance content customisation or video creation, are integrated in the system, like for instance a learning management system (LMS). An LMS is a robust software platform designed to facilitate the administration, documentation, tracking, reporting, and delivery of educational courses, training programs, or online learning and development programs.

 

Four different modalities

Instructors create materials for different learning styles based on four different modalities. These types can be used interchangeably, combined, or separately when creating content, structuring learning sessions, and planning training programmes. The most commonly used modalities are: 

• Text 
• Audio 
• Images
• Video 

 

Examples of the multimodal learning style

There are many ways of doing multimodal learning in practice, but as a tease before going into the detail with the VARK model, we outline a few examples below:  

• Case-based learning: Simulations which connect theory and practice benefit different learning preferences, because it can be stimulating visually, requires concentration, and involves discussion. 

• Multimedia research projects: A combination of all four modalities benefits many learners, because it stimulates their preferred way of learning and retaining information.

Gamification: Games are engaging, have visual elements, and are often repetitive. 

The VARK model 

The VARK model refers to four sensory modalities that describe different learning preferences. It was developed by Neil Fleming, a New Zealand teacher, in 1987 to categorise various ways of learning. His idea was that this classification of learning preferences would reflect how students learn best and by knowing this, the individual learner and instructor would get some crucial insight into which learning strategies to implement. 

 

The VARK learning styles 

Learners are identified by whether they have a preference for learning through images or visual elements, by listening to music or discussing, by reading and writing, or through movement. 

• Visual learning: Pictures, movies, and diagrams 
• Auditory learning: Music, lectures, and discussions
• Reading and writing learning: Taking notes and reading books
• Kinesthetic learning: Movement and hands-on activities 

 

Categorisation of the different learners 

Visual learners

Visual learners learn the best by using graphic displays like images, infographics, videos, and illustrations to obtain information. These learners will probably be engaged by gamification or multimodal projects, which we outlined earlier in the article. 

You are probably a visual learner if: 

• You find art, beauty, and aesthetics important 
• You remember better by visualising information in your mind 
• You have to see information in order to obtain it 
• You pay close attention to body language 

 

Aural learners 

Aural learners learn the best by listening to lectures or discussions. Audio can be included in both gamification, multimedia projects, and case studies. 

You are probably an aural learner if: 

• You are good at remembering information that you are told 
• You read out loud to remember information 
• You prefer to listen to a lecture over reading in a textbook 

 

Reading and writing learners 

Reading and writing learners enjoy learning by actively reading books and taking notes, such is the case for case studies or multimedia projects.  

You are probably a reading and writing learner if: 

• You enjoy making lists and creating presentations 
• You obtain information through books and articles 
• You take notes while reading books or handouts 

 

Kinesthetic learners 

Kinesthetic learners learn best by moving and actively doing something to obtain information. They are for example stimulated by case studies and real-life situations. 

You are probably a kinesthetic learner if: 

• Hands-on experience is important to you 
• You are good at painting, cooking, sports, and similar activities
• You enjoy manipulating objects and materials 
• You have to practice something to learn it by heart 
• You have trouble sitting still for long periods of time

 

A multimodal learner 

A lot of the time people enjoy several different ways of learning, which means that they will not fit into either of these four learning types. Multimodal learners are those who enjoy taking advantage of one or more of the VARK modalities. 

For example, a multimodal learner might appreciate a lecture where the instructor explains ideas and arguments and where the learner takes notes (auditory learning) while requiring visual elements to keep engaged and interested in the subject (visual learning). 

 

Implementing VARK through various learning strategies 

Let us focus on the various VARK learning styles and discuss how to translate them into practical learning strategies.

 

Visual learning strategies

Visual learners learn the best by seeing, which opens up for many different learning strategies. You should actively use images and videos in learning sessions, and as an instructor, you should ensure that the balance between various visual elements is comprehensible. The images should be clear, the videos succinct, and the infographics relevant. 

 

Auditory learning strategies

Aural learners are dependent on someone who is actively explaining a concept to them or demonstrating something to them in real life. Should you frame your learning session around these preferences, we recommend that you structure your session well and talk through each individual step. 

 

Reading and writing learning strategies

Instructions and a well-structured learning session are of key importance to reading and writing learners. 

 

Kinesthetic learning strategies

Kinesthetic or tactile learners are likely to jump right in and literally engage with the contents of the learning session. A key element to ensuring this strategy is successful is for yourself to be flexible and go with the flow. The tactile learners learn best when they are actively engaged, which you should enable by organising your session in the most effective way possible. 

 

How-to: Implementing the strategy 

Consider a scenario where you, as a training provider, are designing a course format for a client whose employees are learning a newly launched time management software. The following steps outline how to create and implement a multimodal learning strategy tailored to their needs. These steps can be adapted to various circumstances.

 

1. Analyse and determine the preferred learning styles 

Begin by identifying employees’ preferred learning styles and how they learn best. Their responses will likely vary based on background, personality, role, and other factors. Categorise them according to the four groups outlined in the VARK model and evaluate which learning styles to prioritise, if not all.

 

2. Take advantage of a learning management system 

The next step is to identify a learning management system (LMS) that facilitates effective training delivery. An LMS is a valuable multi-purpose platform where you can design customised e-learning sessions, create tailored content, and track results.

 

3. Produce high-quality content and customised learning materials

Training materials are central to learning sessions. Ensure they meet the expectations of the learners. This means that the content should be aligned with the dominant learning preferences within the group.

We recommend exploring blended learning approaches, which can further accommodate diverse learning preferences by integrating various formats for discussion and learning. Blended learning combines in-person and online training to facilitate both direct interaction and online flexibility. The goal is to enhance learning outcomes and ensure all learners’ needs are met.

 

4. Host learning sessions 

Invite all employees to learning sessions, organised according to dominant learning styles. If creating productive sessions that simultaneously cater to visual, aural, reading/writing, and tactile learners proves challenging, consider breaking the training into smaller, tailored sessions. The number of these sessions would depend on the number of employees learning the new software and their respective learning styles.

For example, you can host an online session going through the basics of the software, either as a live tutorial or a pre-recorded video. If you choose the latter, you can embed it into the LMS so that colleagues can access the recording whenever they want. A great way to maximise the learning outcome is to provide specialised videos that go into certain features as well. You can combine these online sessions with in-person discussion where you troubleshoot and discuss up- and downsides to certain features in the software. 

 

5. Evaluate the effectiveness of the training sessions

The fifth and final step is multifaceted. Ensure all employees are engaged in the learning process, with opportunities to contribute ideas during the organisation of learning sessions. Continuous feedback on the format, content, and timeframe of each session is valuable for all participants.

This will also inform the final evaluation of the training sessions, which we strongly recommend you prioritise. As a training provider, dedicate time to distributing evaluation forms or conducting evaluation surveys to assess the programme’s success. Establish pre-defined metrics, closely linked to learning outcomes or key business metrics, such as the level of efficiency in adopting the new time management software. Use these metrics in conjunction with feedback from course participants.

Wrapping up the benefits of multimodal learning 

Keep engagement up 

As a training provider, learner engagement and interest are crucial metrics for a successful learning session. This is because learning outcomes are directly linked to learner satisfaction. Learners undertake a course with specific expectations regarding knowledge or skills acquisition, and unmet expectations can lead to disappointment. Engaging learning content is therefore essential to ensure learners acquire the desired knowledge or skills.

 

Host varied learning sessions

Instructors have the freedom to organise and structure their learning sessions in various ways. By implementing a multimodal learning strategy and catering to multiple learning preferences, you can mix several types of content or formats that will impact the engagement level.

 

Provide more autonomy 

Learners will also have the opportunity to choose from a variety of tasks and learn in the way that they learn best. For example, if you are offering upskilling opportunities in the workplace, a multimodal approach would enable employees to find the training modules that are best suited to their needs and preferences. 

 

Did you like this article? Don't forget to share it: