Representation: Support Multiple Means of Perception
Learning is impossible if information is imperceptible to the learner, difficult when information is presented in formats that require extraordinary effort or assistance, and oppressive when content reinforces stereotypes or deficit thinking. To reduce barriers to learning, it is important to ensure that key information is equally perceptible to all learners.
Multiple ways to perceive information
Next time you’re in a museum, consider the flexible ways that visitors can learn the same material. Let’s consider a dinosaur museum:
Visual: visitors can look at dinosaur exhibits to understand its anatomy, size, and environment
Auditory: visitors can listen to a guided audio tour of the museum
Kinesthetic: visitors can dig for dinosaur bones, feel the texture of the bones, or interact with a timeline
Reading: visitors can read plaques, diagrams, and brochures
Social: visitors can listen to tour guides, ask questions, and contribute to discussions
The key is choice
Visitors can choose the representation that works best for them. There is no singular best way to learn any subject, and people’s learning preferences change depending on subject, mood, and other factors.
Consider people with disabilities
Some students may have a learning preference for one representation or another. However, for students with disabilities, it's not a preference: it's a need. They might not be able to access certain means, such as text or sound. Never rely exclusively on learners’ ability to see, hear, or move in a specific way.
Visit the AEM Center to learn about designing for accessibility.
