A VISUAL VOICE, SKETCHNOTING FOR ENGINEERS
Year: 2018
Editor: Erik Bohemia, Ahmed Kovacevic, Lyndon Buck, Peter Childs, Stephen Green, Ashley Hall, Aran Dasan
Author: Paepcke-Hjeltness, Verena Natalie; Hetherton, Lara; Grote, Haley; McKilligan, Seda
Series: E&PDE
Institution: Iowa State University, United States of America
Section: Sketch in Design and Engineering Education
Page(s): 578-584
ISBN: 978-1-912254-02-6
Abstract
This pilot study is part of an ongoing investigation, which explores how low fidelity visualisation such as Sketchnoting, can support learning habits, as well as foster sketch and creative confidence. Sketchnoting is situated at the lower end of the visualisation fidelity spectrum, which ranges from napkin style sketches to photo-realistic renderings or high fidelity info-graphics. It is a methodology that uses simple shapes, frames, and connectors to visualise complex information, concepts, and physical objects, thus it has a low barrier entry for skilled and non-skilled drawers, as well as for designers or non-designers alike. The main focus of this study is to investigate if supplemental materials such as visual templates or specifically developed note-books with visual guides, plus frequent Sketchnote learning and practicing sessions will significantly enhance and positively influence the implementation of Sketchnoting in the day-to-day lecture note-taking and study practices of the students. For this exploration two 3rd year electrical engineering students were introduced to the methodology in a series of one-on-one sessions learning the basics of Sketchnoting over the course of several weeks. In collaboration with the students visual materials were investigated and developed to support their lecture note taking and study material development. The students were followed throughout the process lasting over a period of 16 weeks. This paper discusses the process of the pilot study as well as its outcomes and future implications for a large-scale investigation with a sizeable group of students and possible curriculum implementation.
Keywords: Sketchnoting, Low Fidelity Visualization, Sketchnoting for Engineers, Creative Confidence