VISUAL JOURNAL COURSE PROPOSAL Kristin Livelsberger and George DeMartyn

Course Description In this exciting course, you will explore the use of a journal in diverse ways that combine both writing AND visual information to solve a variety of complex creative problems that challenge you and the connection to your place in the world. “Journal”- A tool that holds the documentation and collections of the journey taken in the creative thought process

Audience: All students grade 9-12 Department: Art & humanities Prerequisites: None Frequency: Semester course (.5 credit) No additional staff required

A LIFE LONG TOOL THAT: Uses more than one type of language/form of communication (“Dual Coding Theory”): verbal, visual, symbolic, sensory and abstract (uses “whole brain”)

VISUAL NOTETAKING MIND MAPPING

Requires writing through a wide variety of methods

Promotes a positive relationship with self & your place in the world.

Demands rigorous creative thinking and problem solving

Creates awareness, understanding, connection and contemplation of diverse & complex topics relevant in the real world

Supports differentiated personal, educational and future professional growth

Encourages observation, reflection, exploration, documentation, brainstorming, planning, goal setting, collecting and creating

Investigates the history & importance of visual journaling Leonardo DaVinci Thomas Edison

Focus of Learning History of visual journaling Methods of brainstorming and idea development How to respond verbally and visually to a creative and complex problem or topic Documentation (written and visual) Expression Self-discovery and reflection Exploration/experimentation Tools, materials and techniques in visual journaling Organization and layout of pages

Assessment Department designed rubric that would include the following criteria: Evidence of creative thought process Effective communication of ideas Creative application of visual information Organization & layout of pages Appropriate use of tools and materials Mindful use of time and resources