Multimodaalsus

Multimodaalsus refers to the use and understanding of multiple communication modes. These modes can include written and spoken language, visual elements like images, graphics, and video, as well as gestures, sounds, and other sensory inputs. In essence, it is about how meaning is constructed and interpreted through the interplay of various semiotic resources.

The concept of multimodaalsus is central to understanding contemporary communication, which increasingly blends different forms of expression. For instance, a webpage is multimodal because it combines text, images, and potentially audio or video. A presentation often uses spoken words alongside slides filled with text, pictures, and charts. Even everyday interactions involve multimodal elements, such as a conversation accompanied by facial expressions and body language.

Researchers in fields like linguistics, communication studies, and education explore multimodaalsus to analyze how different modes contribute to or detract from the overall message. Understanding how these modes work together helps in designing more effective learning materials, digital interfaces, and persuasive arguments. It highlights that meaning is not solely derived from words, but from the rich combination of all communicative elements employed.