Thanks to the OAEA (and of course the Guardian) for recently posting this article about the value of drawing in the education curriculum- definitely worth a read!
Drawing skills are increasingly important in our visually dominated culture. Here's a quick quote from the article:
"As a primary visual language, essential for communication and expression, drawing is as important as the development of written and verbal skills. The need to understand the world through visual means would seem more acute than ever; images transcend the barriers of language, and enhance communications in an increasingly globalised world."
As a classroom teacher, I use drawing as way to help students visualize their work, especially when it involves a complex, multi-step process such as constructing an argument in a debate or essay; a research project; a study plan; or even an equation. Drawing is a quick way to get what's in your head on to paper, without having to worry about language, which involves barriers to the thinking process such as conventions, grammar, structure and punctuation. While some learners may be able to express their thoughts and processes through written or spoken language, I have found that many do not possess these abilities and can express themselves more directly through a sketch or a mind-map.
- Patrick
