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The Science-Backed Way to Double Employee Retention Through Training
Author: Mohana Radhakrishnan
Summary:
Multimodal learning engages multiple senses (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and text) to boost understanding and retention. In corporate training, it enhances engagement and accommodates diverse learning styles. This guide explores how to design and deliver effective multimodal experiences using a flexible LMS.
What is multimodal learning?
Multimodal learning means delivering content via multiple channels (such as images combined with narration and interactive tasks) instead of relying on a single mode like text-only. This approach helps reinforce ideas across senses, making them easier to recall and apply.
Research supports its effectiveness: studies show that multimodal learning is more effective than single-mode learning, and the majority of learners prefer learning with multiple modalities.
How do you find an LMS that supports multimodal experiences?
You need a flexible platform that supports different media types—video, audio, interactive quizzes, simulations—and works across devices (desktop, mobile, offline).
For example, ExpertusONE’s all-in-one LMS allows embedding videos and audio directly in modules, so learners don’t have to leave the platform or switch tabs. This seamless experience supports multimodal learning without friction.
The real power of a multimodal LMS is that it lets you experiment: combine formats, test what works best, and incrementally improve based on learner data.
What multimodal strategies work best in corporate training??
Here are a few modalities and how you can combine them:
- Video + narration + captions: Good for conveying processes or demonstrations.
- Interactive quizzes or hotspots over visuals: Test comprehension while keeping learners active.
- Hands-on assignments or simulations (kinesthetic): For courses that involve doing tasks, not just reading or listening.
- Live sessions or discussions (social + visual + auditory): To engage learners in real time and let them ask questions.
- Audio or podcasts + visual slides: Learners can absorb while commuting or working.
You don’t need every mode in every module; test combinations and focus where they make the most impact.
How do you measure whether your multimodal strategy works?
Track metrics like:
- Completion rates by format (which modules see higher drop-off)
- Quiz or assessment scores
- Learner feedback and qualitative responses
An integrated LMS (or Learning Record Store) can correlate which media combinations lead to better knowledge retention and user satisfaction. If some modules using multimedia outperform static modules, that’s a signal to replicate that approach.
Looking to start using multimodal learning?
If you want to start building multimodal learning into your L&D strategy, book a demo to see how ExpertusONE can help.
FAQs
Yes. A multimodal teaching approach combining video, interactive discussion, and hands-on practice led to significantly higher exam scores compared to traditional methods in a medical training study.
In one survey, 72% of students said they prefer learning that uses multiple modalities rather than just one.
Yes. Studies show that presenting verbal and visual content together (rather than separately) can ease mental processing and improve comprehension.
Research in vocabulary learning showed that combining text with images and sound led to better long-term retention than just one mode alone, though not all combinations are equally powerful.
Key Takeaways
Multimodal learning uses multiple content formats—visual, auditory, and interactive—to improve retention and engagement.
Learners retain more information and perform better when lessons combine video, text, and interactive elements.
A flexible LMS like ExpertusONE enables seamless multimodal experiences without switching between tools or tabs.
Tracking engagement and performance data helps identify which modality combinations drive the best learning outcomes.
