Multi-sensory Learning in Early Education

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Multi-sensory Learning in Early Education

  • Learning Objectives
    • Define Multi-sensory Learning.
    • Identify the key components of Multi-sensory Learning.
    • Understand the benefits and importance of Multi-sensory Learning.
    • Understand how to create a Multi-sensory Learning Environment.
  • What is Multi-sensory Learning?

    Multi-sensory learning is an instructional method which encourages the simultaneous utilization of several senses to absorb and comprehend new knowledge (Silverman, 2023).multi colored image of parts of the brain

    By integrating multiple senses, it is possible to stimulate various parts of the brain, leading to enhanced retention of information and comprehension.

  • Five Key Components of Multi-sensory Learning
    • Visual - Learning through watching and seeingsensory body parts, nose, ear, tongue, eyes, brain, hand
    • Auditory - Learning trough listening and hearing sounds
    • Kinesthetic - Learning through physical activity or body movement
    • Tactile - Learning through touching.
    • Olfactory/ Gustatory- Learning through smelling and tasting
  • Why is Multi-sensory Learning important?

    Students respond with optimism when teachers modify their lesson plans to fit the different learning styles of their students. Students will be more confident and connected going into learning experiences, and they will take an active role in their education (Willis, 2007).

    Utilizing multi-sensory learning techniques can offer additional avenues for students with sensory impairments to access and engage in the learning process.

    Engaging in multi-sensory learning activates the brain's Reticular Activating System, which is responsible for the fight or flight response (Willis, 2007).

    Utilizing multi-sensory learning techniques enables students to establish connections between new material and their existing knowledge.

  • Benefits of Multi-sensory Learning
    • Supports cognitive developmentSensory connections and learning
    • Improved retention
    • Strengthens fine and gross motor skills
    • Allows for individualize lesson planning
    • Language and literacy Development
    • Supports brain development
    • Allows students to take an active role in learning
    • Promotes social-emotional development  
    • Effective for ALL learners
  • Creating a Multi-sensory Learning Environment
    • Using visual aids (photos, chart stories, diagrams)
    • Incorporating sensory activities in all learning centers
    • Hands-On activities for active engagement
    • Incorporating movement activities
    • Incorporating kinesthetic activities such as dance, role paly, and art
    • Preparing child-led activities
    • Providing theme-based activities in learning centers
    • Providing audio resources (music, listening station, transition cues)
  • Supporting Visual Learners
    • Using visual aids (photos, chart stories, diagrams) little boy looking at bugs it clear containers The world below - plants from an underground view, fungi, bacteria, antaropods, earthworms and organic matter.
    • Create visual schedule
    • Encourage drawing and writing
    • Be aware of facial expressions and body language
    • Accompany verbal direction with visual cues

      

  • Supporting Auditory Learners:
    • Use verbal explanations
    • Incorporate music, sound, and other audio
    • Provide opportunities for open discussions
    • Use mnemonics and acronyms
    • Encourage group discussions
  • Supporting Tactile/Kinesthetic Learners
    • Incorporate props to teach conceptsLetter sound game - color circles
    • Make story time interactive
    • Provide opportunities for movement
    • Use mnemonics and acronyms
    • Provide opportunities for constructing and taking apart
    • Allow opportunities for touch and manipulation of objects
  • Supporting Olfactory/ Gustatory Learners
    • Involve student in meal preparationI taste with my mouth fruit flashcards on a table
    • Create a sensory workspace
    • Incorporate cooking experiences
    • Add an indoor/outdoor garden
  • Resources