What is MOI?

by James
(Sydney, Australia)

I've heard MOI is a useful spelling technique. What is it exactly? Does it work?

Hi James - MOI is not really a spelling technique. It is rather a scientific concept which underpins some very modern spelling programs. It stands for Mental Orthographic Image. MOI-based spelling systems emphasize the importance of repeated exposure of a word as a picture that the brain learns to immediately recognize.

An MOI approach moves away from spelling techniques that rely on learning rules and principles about spelling (you know, the 'I before E except after C' variety?). It has won a great deal of support in research circles.

I hope that makes sense. Let me know if you need any further clarification.