Drawing for Perceptual-Cognitive Development

Drawing, like reading or writing, is a learned skill that can be taught and developed. The practice of drawing develops one's perceptual-cognitive skills, the ability to accurately perceive, process and utilize visual information, a skill that transfers into all disciplines of learning. The skill and process of drawing also develops attention to detail, concentration, fine motor skills, problem solving, spatial reasoning, and understanding of proportion and perspective. The benefits of drawing extend into the social-emotional arena, as it has been used as therapy to reduce anxiety and stress. This course is aligned with the best-selling book Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards. Students will complete the drawing exercises and develop integrated lessons to be used in the subjects that they teach. Although students will see a marked improvement in their own drawing abilities, they will be graded for completion of the assignments rather than drawing ability. The exercises in this course will benefit those of all levels of drawing experience. No prior drawing experience or instruction is needed.

NOTE: Required book must be acquired separately.

This course is applicable towards the Art in the Classroom Certificate.