Finding my way through drawing : the evolution of a thesis

This paper describes the use of ‘process drawing’ or ‘rough sketching’ in the development of my doctoral study, Back to the drawing board? The thesis uses a mix of methodologies and methods to investigate the creative thinking behaviours, attitudes and barriers to drawing participation of Visual Communication Design students at Western Sydney University (formerly UWS). The findings inform the development of a series of speed drawing activities designed to encourage drawing participation in the classroom. As both design practitioner and educator, I look back on my ‘thinking trail’ and reflect on the unique benefits drawing provided at crucial stages. I compare these with the design thinking practices of students. The different types of drawing and their functions are clarified and defined through a summary of the literature and taxonomies identifying ten good reasons for novice designers to include ‘drawing’ in their creative thinking toolbox