Specialized Training: Simultaneous Multisensory Teaching Approach (SMT)

The Simultaneous Multisensory Teaching approach has roots in the Orton-Gillingham method of teaching. This method uses specific pedagogical techniques to ensure that students, especially adults, learn with efficiency.

Recent scientific research has shown that adults who are attempting to acquire a second language face challenges due to memory and the binding together of new information as is the case in foreign language learning. In order to overcome these barriers, AFL has implemented the SMT approach. By using SMT, AFL ensures optimal learning for successful language acquisition. Our method, backed by scientific research, ensures that learning objectives are met in a timely manner.

Based on scientific evidence and years of successful application, the SMT approach focuses on stimulating thorough phonemic and phonological awareness as a primary step in language acquisition. This ensures that progressively difficult language tasks are acquired without the characteristic phonological difficulties that seriously hinder language development for individuals with learning difficulties.

SMT and Second Language Training

The SMT approach is a scientifically proven method designed to accelerate second language acquisition for adult learners. It provides students with a thorough understanding of the sounds, symbols and rules that govern language. Using these proven learning tools and techniques, students develop their pronunciation and fluency in their second language. The material is presented in short, sequential steps which enable students to develop a near-native pronunciation of their second language.

The SMT approach favours learning through active interaction and language task immersion. Our innovative learning system dictates that grammar concepts will not be studied using theory first. Instead, genuine language tasks and authentic communication activities will be completed, followed by theoretical grammatical development, hence allowing the student to fully grasp the practical aspects of the language. This innovative teaching style uses a variety of methods to ensure successful and stress-free second language acquisition and is unparalleled in effectiveness for targeting the distinct needs of adult learners.

Pedagogical Principles of the SMT Approach

1. Simultaneous Sensory Training

All senses are engaged simultaneously in language learning through visual, auditory, kinesthetic and tactile activities that allow for the most complete approach to language learning.

2. Systematic and Cumulative Teaching

Each new step builds upon the last in a harmonious manner, allowing the student to synthesize new and old information successfully for a holistic approach to language acquisition. Increasingly difficult levels of language usage are introduced progressively, building language levels naturally from basic to intermediate and advanced.

3. Direct Teaching

Specific, direct, clear and complete explanations are provided, reducing the stressful 'guessing' of language rules. Mistakes are a natural part of language acquisition and are treated as such, allowing for an open and comfortable learning environment.

4. Diagnostic Teaching

Teaching is constantly modified to best suit the needs of the student, their developing language abilities and rising difficulties. Ongoing diagnostic evaluations ensure that lessons are modified to suit the needs of developing language skills, ensuring that successful learning takes place throughout the training program.

5. Synthetic and Analytic Teaching

Teachers adopt a synthetic approach to teaching, breaking learning tasks into smaller parts moving toward the overall lesson and moving from the overall lesson goals to smaller parts of teaching, ensuring that details are not overlooked and overall learning goals are not neglected. This holistic approach ensures a constant flow of discourse, clarifying mistakes and building skills on an ongoing basis with successful results.

Achieving New Heights in Adult Education

The unique alternative offered by Académie de Formation Linguistique Inc. rapidly improves and develops language skills with notably less stress, time and cost for clients and sponsoring institutions.

A thorough initial language evaluation, unique teaching methods, ongoing language assessments and pedagogical updates as well as our stress-free program ensure that all clients benefit from the most effective and efficient method of language training in the industry today! If you would like more information on the benefits of using SMT, contact our main office via telephone at 613.722.6539.