Gather information about a task Link information for ideas they already know and understand Perceive the logic involved in solving problems Learn problem-solving steps Tap into nonverbal reasoning skills Understand relationships between concepts Learn information and store it for later recall
Why Multisensory Techniques Are Important for Students With LDs
Students with LDs typically have learning differences in one or more areas of reading, writing, math, listening comprehension, and expressive language. They can range from simple to complex, depending on the needs of the student and the task at hand.
Multisensory Techniques Help Teachers Accommodate Learning Styles
Some researchers theorize that many students have an area of sensory learning strength, sometimes called a learning style. This research suggests that when students are taught using techniques consistent with their learning styles, they learn more easily, faster, and can retain and apply concepts more readily to future learning. Most students, with a disability or not, enjoy the engaging variety that multisensory techniques can offer.
Stimulating Visual Reasoning and Learning
Multisensory techniques often include visual teaching methods and strategies such as using:
Text and/or pictures on paper, posters, models, projection screens, or computers Film, video, multi-image media, augmentative picture communication cards or devices, fingerspelling and sign language Adaptive Reading Materials Use of color for highlighting, organizing information, or imagery Graphic organizers, and outlining passages Student-created art, images, text, pictures, and video
Auditory Techniques
Multisensory techniques that focus on sound and stimulate verbal reasoning are called auditory techniques. Auditory techniques include strategies such as using:
Computerized text readers, augmentative communication devices; auditory trainers; hearing aids; books on tape, podcasts, and peer-assisted readingVideo, film, or multi-image media with accompanying audioMusic, song, instruments, speaking, rhymes, chants, and language games
Tactile Teaching Methods
Multisensory techniques that involve using the sense of touch are called tactile methods. Tactile methods include strategies such as:
Using small objects, called math manipulatives, to represent number values to teach math skills such as counting, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and divisionUse of modeling materials such as clay and sculpting materials, paper mache to create modelsUse of sand trays, raised line paper, textured objects, sensory putty, finger paints, and puzzles to develop fine motor skills
Kinesthetic Methods
Multisensory methods that use body movement are called kinesthetic methods. These involve fine and gross motor movement such as:
Preschool and primary games involving jumping rope, clapping, stomping or other movements paired with activities while counting, and singing songs related to conceptsAll tactile activities mentioned aboveAny large motor activity for older students involving dancing, beanbag tossing, basketball, or other such activities involving concepts, rhythmic recall, and academic competition such as current events quizzes, flashcard races, and other learning games
Recipes to Make Your Own Multisensory Materials
Finger Paint Gel Puffy Paint Crafting Dough
