what is a multimodal presentation

Module 9: Beyond the Research Paper

Introduction to multimodal presentations.

In this section we’ll consider multimodal presentation of ideas. “Multimodal” is a fancy word meaning something that uses multiple modes—in this case, modes of communication. The five modes of communication are: visual , linguistic , spatial , aural , and gestural .

A mode is different from a medium : a mode is a means of communicating, while a medium is the channel or system through which communications are conveyed. So, for example, if we want to communicate in the linguistic mode , we might choose the medium of print. If we want to communicate in the aural mode , we might choose the medium of a podcast. Both print and podcasts are forms of media.

Multimodal presentation uses multiple modes to communicate information: for instance, an infographic uses both visual and linguistic modes to communicate (both images and words), while a video would use even more modes; potentially all five.

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Multimodal presentation methods refer to the use of various modes of communication, including text, visuals, audio, and interactive elements, to convey information and engage an audience. These methods enhance learning by catering to different learning styles and preferences, making content more accessible and effective. By integrating multiple forms of media, these presentations can create richer, more engaging experiences that promote deeper understanding.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

Multimodal presentation methods support diverse learning preferences, allowing students to process information in ways that best suit them.
These methods often include a combination of visual aids, such as slides or videos, along with auditory components like podcasts or lectures.
Engaging students through multiple modalities can increase motivation and retention of information by making lessons more dynamic.
Teachers can use technology tools like PowerPoint, Prezi, or educational apps to create interactive presentations that incorporate various modes of delivery.
Research shows that incorporating multimodal elements in instruction can lead to improved academic performance and increased student engagement.

Review Questions

Multimodal presentation methods enhance learning by providing different ways for students to engage with content, addressing various learning styles such as visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. For instance, using videos alongside written text allows visual learners to grasp concepts better while auditory learners benefit from discussions or audio clips. This approach not only makes lessons more inclusive but also fosters a deeper understanding as students can interact with material through their preferred modes.
Incorporating technology into multimodal presentation methods significantly boosts their effectiveness in an inclusive classroom. Tools like interactive whiteboards and multimedia software allow educators to present information in engaging ways that capture student interest. Moreover, technology can provide adaptive resources tailored for students with disabilities, ensuring all learners can access content equally. This versatility helps promote collaboration among students and encourages active participation in the learning process.
To synthesize Universal Design for Learning principles with multimodal presentation methods in a lesson plan, educators should ensure they provide multiple means of engagement by incorporating interactive activities like group discussions or hands-on projects. For representation, using a blend of visuals, text, and audio resources allows students to connect with the content through various channels. Lastly, offering multiple ways for students to express their understanding—such as through written assignments, presentations, or creative projects—further supports diverse learners' needs while fostering an inclusive environment.

Related terms

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) : A framework aimed at optimizing teaching and learning by providing multiple means of engagement, representation, and action/expression to accommodate diverse learners.

Differentiated Instruction : An educational approach that tailors teaching methods and resources to meet the varying needs of students in a classroom.

Interactive Learning : An educational process that involves active participation from students, using hands-on activities or technology to facilitate engagement and collaboration.

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Creativity: Multimodal Presentations with Text and Visual Harmony

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Multimodal communication involves the integration of various ways to convey information and ideas, making use of our senses like sight, hearing, and touch. Employing multiple communication modes can greatly assist in effectively reaching your audience.

When you're planning and drafting your presentation, there are several options to consider. You can opt for slide-based formats like PowerPoint or Prezi, create a video, design artwork, develop an interactive website, or even perform your presentation live. Each of these options has its advantages and disadvantages, so it's crucial to assess which one aligns best with your assignment or the expectations set by your instructor.

Ensuring readability is paramount in a multimodal presentation . To achieve this, keep these tips in mind:

Focus on including the most crucial elements of your research, avoiding information overload.

Consider the type of fonts you use. Sans serif fonts tend to be more readable on screens, while serif fonts are generally better for printed materials. Whichever you choose, maintain consistency throughout your presentation.

If you use colors, strike a balance between professionalism and visual appeal. Harmonious color combinations can enhance the audience's understanding and feelings about your content.

Engaging your audience is a key goal in any presentation, and visual elements play a significant role in achieving this engagement. Here are some considerations for different types of visuals:

Simplify or crop images as needed to focus on key details.

Include captions and proper citations for your images, providing titles, brief descriptions, and retrieval information or citations.

Ensure that you have the right to use the images you incorporate, avoiding copyrighted or licensed material. Consider utilizing free image galleries such as Pixabay, Pexels, Gratisography, and Compfight.

Creating Multimodal Presentations Blending Text and Visuals

Keep video clips concise to maintain audience interest.

Whenever possible, embed video files directly into your presentation to ensure seamless transitions and minimize potential technological issues associated with linked videos.

Sound or music can enhance your presentation, but it's crucial to choose sounds or music that are appropriate for your content.

Embed audio files within your presentation rather than relying on external links for a smoother experience.

In oral presentations, guiding your audience effectively involves three key components:

Verbal: What you say.

Vocal: How you say it.

Visual: Everything the audience can see.

To structure your presentation effectively, outline your major points, explain each one, and then recap them. Use transitional phrases and keywords to guide your audience through your talk, such as "Consequently," "The next point I would like to discuss," "On the contrary," or "To revisit what I mentioned earlier."

For group presentations, coordination and preparation are essential:

All group members should rehearse and become familiar with the content, enabling each member to transition smoothly between slides or sections.

Distribute the sections or slides of the presentation among team members fairly.

Every group member should make an equal contribution to both the creation and delivery of the presentation.

Here are some pro tips to enhance your presentation skills :

Create presentation notes to avoid reading directly from slides or a script.

Practice and rehearse to feel more comfortable and confident when presenting.

It's normal to feel nervous, but preparation and rehearsal can alleviate this.

Speak extemporaneously, emphasizing your main points.

Seek feedback from others, including Writing Consultants, classmates, or your professor.

Maintain eye contact with your audience and engage with them instead of simply speaking at them.

Utilize your voice effectively by varying your tone, pace, and volume to emphasize key points. Be confident and avoid unnecessary apologies for mistakes.

Use positive body language, maintaining a stable and authoritative posture.

Embrace pauses when necessary rather than relying on filler words like "um" or "uh."

Dress professionally and avoid distracting attire that may affect your audience's perception of you.

Visualize your desired outcome instead of dwelling on what you want to avoid.

In summary, creating multimodal presentations involves effectively blending various communication modes to engage your audience's senses. By considering factors like readability, visuals, and effective oral communication, you can deliver compelling and impactful presentations that effectively convey your message.

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What is Multimodal Communication?

Multimodal communication is a method of communicating using a variety of methods, including verbal language, sign language, and different types of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

What Is Multimodal Communication?

There are many different modes of communication, from verbal language to written language to sign language to the use of speech-generating devices. You can also communicate through gestures and body language. Nearly everyone communicates multimodally, but the term multimodal communication is often associated with individuals who have complex communication needs (CCN) .

Individuals with CCN are unable to use spoken language to meet their communication needs due to congenital or acquired disabilities (Therrien & Light, 2018). They may not have the ability to speak in a way that is understood or write complete messages. They often use alternative ways to help them communicate , which may be through low tech, mid tech, and/or high tech AAC .

Multimodal communication is the approach that an individual can communicate through a variety of methods; this may include using a combination of speaking phrases, writing words down, and using a high tech AAC device. It may also include using drawings, gestures, facial expressions, symbols, pictures, and more to communicate messages.

Who Uses Multimodal Communication?

Adults and children may have CCN due to having a motor speech disorder, aphasia, brain injury, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental disorder, or various genetic abnormalities. These individuals may have neurological or anatomical differences that impact their ability to communicate effectively. They may not be able to speak fluently or articulate precisely. They may not be able to write effectively (though sometimes, writing is an alternative form of communicating). Because of this, they may use alternative methods to most effectively communicate.

Why Use Multimodal Communication?

Everyone has the right to communicate , and everyone should be able to communicate their thoughts, ideas, wants, and needs. Someone who is unable to speak their message clearly shouldn’t prevent them from being able to share their message with others. This may be as simple as requesting a toy to play with to as complex as sharing their deep thoughts and beliefs.

Having alternative, or multimodal, ways to communicate can also help an individual be more independent.

If someone has non-fluent aphasia and has difficulty speaking in full sentences, they may use a high tech AAC device or just pen and paper when looking or asking for something at a store or talking to their doctor at an appointment.
Someone may point to the kitchen or make the sign for food to indicate that they are hungry rather than waiting for someone to ask if they’re hungry or give them food.

Where Do You Use Multimodal Communication?

Individuals can use multimodal communication everywhere! They may need different ways to communicate in homes, schools, hospitals, stores, playgrounds, or anywhere they go.

How Do You Determine What Type of Communication Method(s) To Use?

The most important thing to do when determining communication methods to use is to keep the individual with CCN at the forefront of your mind. You should take into consideration what communication methods they can use, what they like to use, and what they want to use. If you are a speech-language pathologist (SLP), there are a variety of assessment tools that you can use. If you are an individual with CCN or caregiver to someone with CCN, we advise you to reach out to an SLP for communication support. A primary care physician or insurance company may be able to help you find one.

What Are Some Examples of Multimodal Communication?

There are many types of AAC, including aided and unaided systems. Unaided systems, which are sometimes referred to as no tech AAC , include the use of facial expressions and manual signs/gestures to communicate. Aided systems, which include low tech , mid tech , and high tech AAC , include the use of communication boards and speech-generating devices.

No Tech (Unaided) AAC Examples:

Manual signs, e.g., ASL
Nodding head, shaking head
Blinking eyes, closing eyes, looking up and/or down with eyes
Thumbs up, thumbs down
Turning head to left or right
Shaking hand
Pointing with finger/hand
Moving/kicking legs
Clapping hands, snapping fingers

Low Tech (Aided) AAC Examples

Pen and paper: An individual can write or draw their messages. A portable whiteboard or Boogie Board (LCD tablet) is another option.
Alphabet board: An individual can point to letters/numbers to spell their message for their communication partner (i.e. someone an individual communicates with on a regular basis, whether it be a parent, caregiver, nurse, etc.).
Core words board: A few basic symbols an individual can point to in order to communicate their message. Core words boards are typically laminated pieces of paper.
Pictures/symbols: A few symbols (similar to those on a core words board) on different cards or laminated squares an individual can hand to their communication partner to communicate their message.
Communication book: Multiple pages of symbols, often grouped by category (e.g., food, toys, places) with familiar vocabulary to the individual to whom it belongs.

Mid Tech (Aided) AAC Examples

Single button: something like a Big Mack, which can speak a single, pre-programmed message (e.g. "I want a drink")
Single overlay displays: something like a GoTalk, with a limited number of pre-programmed messages.

High Tech (Aided) AAC Examples

A tablet with a software program for communication. This program may have multiple pages and folders (e.g. pressing “School” brings you to a page with school vocabulary, pressing “Food” brings you to a page with food options).
A computer that has software programs that allow you to type, control a mouse, send emails, and browse the Internet.

Looking for more AAC resources?

We have created a number of great AAC resources!

AAC Goal Bank

Check out this comprehensive goal bank, with THOUSANDS of goal possibilities that cover all areas of AAC. It's excellent for individuals of all ages. These goals include linguistic (receptive and expressive), social, literacy, and general device competency areas.

Core Word of the Week

We have several different activities that can be used to target the core word GO. You may choose to use all of these activities in speech therapy sessions or just a couple. These activities can also be shared with other educators and caregivers so they can participate in them outside of speech therapy sessions. More "Core Word of the Week" activities are coming soon!

Aided Language Stimulation

Aided Language Stimulation, sometimes known as Aided Language Input, is a method of modeling language using an AAC device while an AAC user is observing. The purpose of it is to build communication skills using an AAC device. Read our article to learn 10 ways to provide Aided Language Stimulation .