Q4 - Multiliteracies and multimodal approaches

Week 10 - Relevance of muliliteracies and multimodal approaches to supporting student learning.

We are told from our very first lesson as future teachers that all students have different needs and learning styles. This is related to the concepts multiliteracy and multimodality approaches to teaching and learning. The concepts of multiliteracy and multimodality includes presenting and adapting information for students to allow them to make meaning of it through the interaction of different communication modes such as language, images and sound (Duncum, 2004). For example, adding pictures and or sound to written text may contribute to understanding meaning for students (Duncum, 2004). Not only would adding other concepts such as these to information influence understanding, but it would create an environment for students that is much more engaging and encourage students to participate more in learning (Unsworth, 2001). This approach to teaching provides for the different learning styles of students.

Like the majority of theories there are strengths and limitations. In regards to the concepts relating to multiliteracy and mulimodality the strengths seem much more prominent than there limitations. Not only does changing information into a form of multiliteracy pedagogy (adding video/illustrations) in which students can gain better understanding and deeper knowledge of the subjects, it also provides an environment that can benefit students from all backgrounds regardless of their age, culture or gender etc. However, constantly having to adapt information for all students learning types and preferences seems as though it can add to teacher work load and unnecessary stress when it comes to planning a lesson. However with the use of technology it allows the teacher to differentiate the lessons and provide less stress and better quality teaching.

Introducing multiliteracies and multimodal pedagogy into classrooms will provide the opportunities for students to participate at their own level and relate to the information provided. This teaching method also provides a change from face-to-face teaching.

By attending this course, it has given me the confidence and knowledge to use ICT in my future classrooms. It has shown me how effective ICT resources can be on student learning, which ultimately improves students participation, engagement and understanding not to mention student enjoyment. This is a personal goal of mine as a future teacher; to provide my students with a safe and fun environment to learn in.