Teachers are increasingly using a mix of images and writing to make learning more engaging and effective. One notable example is the use of digital storytelling in classrooms. Students create stories using text, images, audio, and video, which helps them understand and express ideas in multiple ways. For instance, in a Filipino language class, students might write a narrative about a local legend, illustrate it with drawings or photos, record voiceovers, and compile everything into a video. This process allows students to shift between different modes—writing, visual arts, and audio—enhancing their comprehension and creativity.

Interactive whiteboards are also becoming more common in our schools. Teachers use these boards to display texts alongside images and videos, making lessons more dynamic and interactive. For example, during a history lesson on the Philippine Revolution, a teacher might show historical documents and photos of key figures and events. Students can interact with the content by highlighting text, drawing connections between images and writing, and even adding their own annotations. This multimodal approach helps students make connections between different types of information, enhancing their understanding and retention.

Project-based learning (PBL) is another effective method used in Philippine classrooms. Students work on projects that require them to research a topic and present their findings using both text and visuals. For example, a science project on the biodiversity of the Philippines might involve writing a report, creating diagrams of local ecosystems, and presenting findings through a slideshow. This method encourages students to synthesize information from various sources and present it in a coherent, multimodal format. The process of shifting from writing to visual representation and back again helps students develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

These experiences highlight the power of synaesthesia—the process of shifting from one mode to another—and integrated, multimodal learning. By engaging multiple senses, students are more engaged, motivated, and able to retain information better. This approach also fosters creativity and critical thinking, essential skills for the digital age. Integrating multimodal resources in Philippine classrooms not only makes learning more engaging and effective but also helps students develop a range of skills that are crucial for their future.