e-Learning Ecologies MOOC’s Updates
A truly effective multimodal learning program
To develop a truly effective multimodal learning program, it's essential to integrate a variety of learning solutions and conduct a thorough evaluation of individual profile preferences. This approach ensures a targeted and enhanced learning experience that is both effective and tailored to the learner's unique needs.
We might consider the following approach:
1. Pre-Test on Learning Preferences
Start by administering a pre-test to identify each participant's preferred learning style. You can use tools like the VARK questionnaire, which categorizes learners into Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, and Kinesthetic (VARK) modalities. This step is crucial to understand how participants prefer to engage with new information.
2. Initial Skill Assessment
Conduct an initial skill assessment tailored to the specific competencies relevant to the learning goals. This assessment should measure participants' current proficiency levels in the targeted skills. Depending on the context, this could involve practical tests, written exams, or scenario-based assessments.
3. Designing Personalized Learning Workouts
Based on the results of the pre-test, design personalized learning modules that cater to the identified learning styles. For example:
- Visual learners could receive materials that include diagrams, videos, and infographics.
- Auditory learners might benefit from podcasts, lectures, and discussions.
- Reading/Writing learners could be provided with extensive reading materials and opportunities to write summaries or reports.
- Kinesthetic learners could engage in hands-on activities, simulations, and role-plays.
The learning content should integrate multiple modes where possible to ensure a richer, more engaging experience for all participants, even those who might benefit from a combination of learning styles.
4. Multimodal Learning Implementation
Deliver the learning modules using a variety of formats. This can include:
- Blended learning approaches combining e-learning with in-person workshops.
- Interactive sessions that mix lectures with group activities, simulations, or practical applications.
- Online platforms that offer diverse content types, from text-based articles to interactive videos and quizzes, catering to all learning preferences.
5. Ongoing Feedback and Adjustment
Throughout the learning process, collect continuous feedback from participants to gauge the effectiveness of the learning strategies. Use this feedback to make any necessary adjustments to the content or delivery methods.
6. Post-Learning Skill Assessment (Purposessair)
After completing the learning modules, conduct a reassessment to evaluate the improvement in skills. This assessment should mirror the initial one to directly compare progress. The results will show how effective the multimodal approach was in enhancing the participants' skills.
7. Continuous Improvement
Analyze the outcomes to identify any gaps or areas for further improvement in the learning strategy. This ongoing process ensures that the learning program evolves to meet the changing needs of participants.
These sources provide a foundation for an effective multimodal learning strategy that is personalized, dynamic, and aligned with both learner preferences and organizational goals, but noone has still the final solution
Sources
- SplashLearn https://splashlearn.com/ for insights into balancing different learning modalities in multimodal learning strategies.
- OakInnovation http://www.oakinnovation.com/ for understanding the benefits of multimodal learning and how to apply it in corporate training.
-Training Industry http://trainingindustry.com/continuing-professional-development/certificates/ai-essentials-for-training-managers-optimizing-ld-with-artificial-intelligence/ for practical examples of implementing multimodal learning in organizational settings.
- WalkMe http://www.walkme.com/solutions/use-case/hr-organization/ for strategies on combining different learning styles to create comprehensive learning experiences.
- TeachThought http://www.teachthought.com/learning/trouble-measuring-understanding/The Trouble With Measuring Understanding (teachthought.com) for a critical perspective on learning styles versus multimodal learning.
Deep dive this topic
1. Why Don't Students Like School?: A Cognitive Scientist Answers Questions About How the Mind Works and What It Means for the Classroom" by Daniel T. Willingham - This book addresses some of the misconceptions about learning styles and emphasizes cognitive science principles that should guide education, including the discussion on multimodal learning. American Educator http://www.aft.org/sites/default/files/WILLINGHAM(2).pdf
2. "Visible Learning and the Science of How We Learn" by John Hattie and Gregory Yates - This book critically examines various educational practices, including the effectiveness and misconceptions around learning styles and multimodal learning approaches. It provides evidence-based insights into how learning actually happens. http://visible-learning.org/2013/07/hattie-yates-visible-learning-and-the-science-of-how-we-learn/
3. "Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning" by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger III, and Mark A. McDaniel - Although not focused solely on multimodal learning, this book discusses the science behind learning strategies, including the pitfalls of over-reliance on preferred learning styles, advocating instead for a more varied approach to learning. Internet Security by Zscaler (youtube.com)
4. "The Myth of Learning Styles: Why Multiple Learning Styles Don't Exist" by John Geake - This book specifically critiques the concept of learning styles and discusses the confusion that arises from trying to categorize learners too rigidly, advocating for more flexible, multimodal approaches. The lie you were told: Multiple Learning Styles 'theory' — Educraft
5. "Learning Styles and Pedagogy in Post-16 Learning: A Systematic and Critical Review" by Frank Coffield et al. - This report critically examines the evidence supporting different learning styles and explores the confusion and misapplication in educational settings, arguing for more integrated and evidence-based methods, including multimodal approaches. http://www.researchgate.net/publication/232929341_Learning_styles_and_pedagogy_in_post_16_education_a_critical_and_systematic_review
6. in Understanding by Design series, Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe discuss the evasiveness of the term “understanding” by referencing Bloom's taxonomy - Wikipedia