I was just too excited when I came across the news article in the UK Guardian titled “Doodling should be encouraged…” – OK it is from February 2009….but I don’t think much has changed in brain development to discount the idea so I’m running with it!
Basically, according to Professor Jackie Andrade of the University of Plymouth,
“Doodling can be a good thing. If there’s a choice between doodling and daydreaming, you’re better off if your students are doodling. Of course, it’s best if you aren’t boring them at all, but doodling isn’t necessarily a sign of your students being naughty—it’s a sign that it may be hard for them to concentrate without something visual.”
It seems that daydreaming, elaborate drawings and sending text messages involve more effort and are distracting, whereas doodling is easier due to it’s repetitive nature – leaving precious resources free for absorbing information.
Doodling has also been found to help with memory recall in a study undertaken at the Medical Research Council’s Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit in Cambridge.
Friday March 2nd is National Doodle Day – OK it’s in the UK – but hey…we can celebrate too! Find info here it is in support of the Epilepsy foundation. Given the benefits of doodling, why not designate a local charity to be the beneficiary of your own ‘doodle day’ and check out the site for Doodle Day resources.
Happy Doodling!!! Remember better to encourage brain engagement with doodles than daydreams!