1. VISUAL JOURNAL COURSE PROPOSAL
Kristin Livelsberger and George DeMartyn

2. 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

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

4. 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”)

5. VISUAL NOTETAKING
MIND MAPPING

6. Requires writing through a wide variety of methods

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

8. Demands rigorous creative thinking and problem solving

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

10. Supports differentiated personal, educational and future professional growth

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

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

13. 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

14. 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