How multi-modal approaches support engineering and computing education research

Multi-modal approaches in engineering and computing education are still in its early stages. With the advent of new technologies and communication platforms, understanding the principles and elements of multi-modal work will help scholars to answer complex research questions related to engineering and computing education. Multi-modal approaches consist of research principles and practices that aim to explore the multi-sensory ways humans experience the complexity and multiplicity of their surrounding world as it happens. This manuscript will elaborate on the principles of multi-modal research, highlight examples in the engineering and computing education literature, and share considerations and strategies. The manuscript’s purpose is to guide scholars who wish to capture participant experiences of phenomena naturalistically and authentically, and in near-real-time..