Journal Writing in Design

J ournal K eeping

Marvin Bartel, instructor

The obvious learning objective of keeping a journal is simply to keep a record for future reference. However, a more important learning objective is to use the journal writing and sketching experiences to prod ourselves to be more creative. Here is a list of ways to help get this started.

INCLUDE SKETCHES

Designers are visual thinkers. That is not to say they don't have other thinking styles, but we are more apt to be innovative problem solvers if we can visualize things as they are and as they might be. I often make visual lists. These are merely a series of sketches to record my ideas. As I sketch, I find that one sketch leads to another. Soon I think of solutions that are much better and more eloquent than anything I could simply imagine in my mind.

MENTION ANOTHER WAY

On the one hand we do well to be inspired by great work. On the other hand, we can often do better than what inspires us. Mention other ways you think something might have been designed. What aspects of this particular house might you want to emulate and what might you want to make different? Give your reasons. Don't accept things you see at face value. The strongest designers are in the habit of always learning from mistakes. They learn from their own mistakes and from the observed mistakes of others. Even if we see something we think is good or we think is okay, if we push the creative side of our personality, we will think of other ways it could be done. Imitation is natural and easy. Innovation requires hard work and imagination, but can truly make the world a better place.

TALK TO OTHERS - ARGUE

Some students find it very helpful to discuss the field trip with another student in the class. You may find that you agree on some things. If you can discuss your disagreements, you will probably get ideas for your journal. Sketches are very appropriate to help illustrate your recollections and your ideas for changes.

MAKE COMPARISONS

Any two houses seen are going to have similarities and differences. Try making some comparisons. Sketches can illustrate a comparison style.

LISTS GET THE CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING

List making is a good creative way to get started on something. It is creative to make a list of possible lists that could be made about a house. Once the lists are made, it will be easier to think of things to write about. I often use my sketches as a list of visual ideas.

I hope this has been helpful. Don't hesitate to communicate you ideas, questions, and concerns.
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For permission to copy or publish, e-mail: marvinpb@goshen.edu
Goshen College students may print a copy for their own use.

page updated 4-25-01