Integrated Senses
We all treat our senses as being distinct from each other, vision is different from hearing, smell is different from touch and so on. Only when talking about smell and taste do we expect some overlap in our senses. However this view of our senses appears not to be the case.
In a 2001 paper, Sensory modalities are not separate modalities: plasticity and interactions [PDF], the researchers review research in to this area. They highlight the effects sound can have on vision in the form of the McGurk effect (see Hear My Voice, Read My Lips) and other experiments. This includes a study that found that when trying to judge which of two lights came on first, sounds before or during the process made an impact on accuracy.
This work emphasizes the role sensory integration plays in our brain functions and reinforces treatment programmes that utilise a multi-sensory approach.
See Rhythm and Dyslexia and Sense Round-Up.
Find Out More:
Books:
- The Well Balanced Child: Movement And Early Learning (Early Years)
- Infinity Walk: Preparing Your Mind to Learn!
- Beyond the Wall: Personal Experiences with Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Second Edition
- Physical Activities for Improving Children’s Learning and Behavior
- Smart Moves: Why Learning Is Not All in Your Head
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