Dyslexia and Art – Is writing an art form?

The history of pictorial-based writing, also known as pictography, dates back thousands of years and has played a significant role in the development of human communication. Pictography involves the use of pictures or symbols to convey information and ideas.

One of the earliest examples of pictorial-based writing can be traced to ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) around 3500 BCE. They used pictographs to represent objects and concepts in their writing system called cuneiform. These early pictographs gradually evolved into more abstract symbols over time.

Art is the root of Concept Thinking

In Egypt, around 3200 BCE, the ancient Egyptians developed a writing system known as hieroglyphics. Hieroglyphics incorporated a combination of pictorial symbols, ideograms (representing ideas or concepts), and phonetic signs. This writing system was used primarily for religious and monumental inscriptions, such as those found on tombs and temple walls. Hieroglyphics remained in use for over 3,000 years.

Concept learning plays a vital role in education as it facilitates deep understanding, critical thinking, and the application of knowledge. Rather than focusing solely on rote memorization or isolated facts, concept learning emphasizes the comprehension of fundamental principles, ideas, and relationships.

When students engage in concept learning, they go beyond superficial knowledge acquisition and delve into the underlying concepts that connect various pieces of information. This approach allows them to make connections, draw conclusions, and develop a broader understanding of the subject matter. By grasping the core concepts, students can build a solid foundation upon which they can construct further knowledge and skills.

One of the key advantages of concept learning is its transferability. When students comprehend a concept, they can apply it to various contexts and situations. This transferability enables them to adapt their understanding to new scenarios, solve complex problems, and think critically. Instead of memorizing isolated facts, students develop a flexible and adaptable knowledge base that can be applied across disciplines.

Concept learning also promotes higher-order thinking skills. As students engage in the exploration and analysis of concepts, they develop critical thinking abilities such as analysis, synthesis, evaluation, and problem-solving. They learn to question, analyze evidence, make connections, and think deeply about the subject matter. This fosters intellectual curiosity, creativity, and the ability to think independently.

Furthermore, concept learning encourages active and engaged learning. Rather than passively receiving information, students actively construct meaning by connecting new concepts to their existing knowledge. This process of constructing knowledge helps students develop a sense of ownership and autonomy in their learning journey. It also enhances their ability to engage in collaborative learning, as they can share and discuss their understanding of concepts with peers.

Concept learning also promotes long-term retention of knowledge. When students grasp concepts deeply, they are more likely to remember and retain information over time. This is because their understanding is not based solely on memorization but on a solid foundation of interconnected ideas. By understanding the relationships between concepts, students create a meaningful mental framework that supports retention and retrieval of information.

Concept learning is of utmost importance in education. It goes beyond rote memorization and focuses on developing a deep understanding of fundamental principles and relationships. By engaging in concept learning, students enhance their critical thinking skills, promote transferability of knowledge, foster active learning, and improve long-term retention. Emphasizing concept learning in educational practices empowers students to become lifelong learners who can apply their knowledge in meaningful ways across various domains.

Logograms

Another well-known example of pictorial-based writing is the Mayan hieroglyphic script used by the Mayan civilization in Mesoamerica (primarily present-day Mexico and Central America). The Mayans developed a highly sophisticated writing system that combined logograms (representing complete words) and phonetic signs. Their script was used for recording historical events, religious rituals, and astronomical observations. The decipherment of Mayan hieroglyphs in the 20th century greatly expanded our understanding of Mayan culture.

Logograms are symbols or characters used in writing systems to represent words or meaningful units of language. Unlike alphabets or syllabaries, which represent phonetic sounds, logograms directly represent entire words or morphemes.

In logographic writing systems, each logogram typically corresponds to a specific word or concept. These symbols can be highly stylized and may have evolved from pictograms, which are simple representations of objects or ideas. Over time, logograms may become more abstract and less visually connected to their original representations.

One well-known example of logographic writing is the Chinese writing system, which uses thousands of logograms called “hanzi.” Each hanzi represents a word or morpheme, and the meanings are conveyed through the combination of logograms. Similarly, the Japanese writing system incorporates Chinese logograms, known as “kanji,” alongside phonetic scripts.

Logograms are efficient in conveying meaning since a single symbol can represent an entire word, reducing the number of characters required to write a text. However, logographic systems can be complex and require extensive memorization, as each symbol must be learned individually.

Logograms are also used in other writing systems. For instance, ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs employed a combination of logograms, phonetic signs, and determinatives (symbols indicating the category of the word) to write their language. Additionally, certain symbols in modern international symbol systems, such as road signs or bathroom icons, can be considered logograms as they represent specific meanings or actions.

In ancient China, pictorial-based writing systems also emerged. The earliest known examples are the oracle bone script and bronze inscriptions dating back to the Shang Dynasty (ca. 1600–1046 BCE). These scripts utilized pictographic representations of objects and ideas, which gradually evolved into more abstract and stylized characters. Over time, the Chinese writing system developed into a complex logographic script, known as Chinese characters, which is still used today.

Logographic writing systems have played a significant role in the development of human communication and continue to be used in various languages and cultures worldwide.

Pictorial-based writing systems have also been found in other regions of the world. For instance, the Native American tribes in North America developed various forms of pictographic communication, often using drawings and symbols to convey information. The Aztecs of Mesoamerica used pictorial glyphs in their writing system as well.

Logograms are in use today

While logograms are most commonly associated with ancient writing systems like Egyptian hieroglyphs or Chinese characters, they still have relevance and use in modern society. Here are some aspects to consider when discussing the use of logograms in the present day:

International Communication

Logograms can play a crucial role in facilitating international communication, particularly when there are language barriers. Emojis, for example, can be considered logograms as they convey specific meanings or emotions across different cultures and languages. Emojis have become an integral part of modern communication, especially in text messages, social media, and online platforms, where they provide a quick and concise way to express sentiments.

Branding and Marketing

Logograms are frequently used in branding and marketing to create visual representations of company names or products. Recognizable logos like the Apple logo or the Nike swoosh serve as logograms that instantly convey brand identity and evoke specific associations. Logograms can be powerful tools for brand recognition and recall, as they provide a visual shorthand that is easily identifiable and memorable.

Public Signage and Wayfinding

Logograms are extensively used in public signage and wayfinding systems to provide information that transcends language barriers. For example, symbols such as arrows, restrooms, or pedestrian crossings are universally understood due to their logographic nature. This enables people from different linguistic backgrounds to navigate and understand instructions easily.

Digital Communication

In the digital age, logograms have become even more prevalent due to the rise of social media and messaging apps. Emoticons, such as the smiley face or thumbs-up sign, are examples of logograms that enhance textual communication by adding emotional context or emphasizing tone. Hashtags, another form of logograms, categorize content and facilitate easy search and discovery on platforms like Twitter and Instagram.

Efficient Communication

Logograms can enable more efficient and concise communication, especially in contexts where space or time is limited. In situations like Twitter, where character count is restricted, or street signs, where quick comprehension is essential, logograms can convey complex messages in a compact form. They allow for rapid communication and can help overcome language barriers in a fast-paced, globalized world.

While logograms have evolved and adapted to the needs of modern society, it’s important to note that they are not universally used or understood. The prevalence and recognition of specific logograms vary across cultures and languages, and their effectiveness depends on the context and audience. Nonetheless, logograms continue to have a significant impact on communication, branding, and cultural expression in the contemporary world

Limitations of writing

Writing, despite being a powerful form of communication, has its inherent limitations. Here are some key limitations of writing:

Lack of Non-Verbal Cues

Writing lacks the non-verbal cues that are present in face-to-face communication. Tone of voice, facial expressions, body language, and gestures provide valuable context and aid in conveying emotions, attitudes, and intentions. Without these cues, the written message may be subject to misinterpretation or ambiguity.

Absence of Immediate Feedback

Unlike real-time conversations, writing does not allow for immediate feedback. In oral communication, participants can clarify doubts, ask questions, and seek instant clarification. In writing, the delay in response can hinder the back-and-forth exchange, making it challenging to address immediate concerns or ensure mutual understanding.

Limited Interactivity

Writing is a one-way mode of communication where the reader is passive. Unlike spoken conversations that can be dynamic and interactive, writing lacks the opportunity for real-time dialogue and engagement. This can hinder the ability to build upon ideas, challenge assumptions, and explore different perspectives collaboratively.

Dependence on Language Skills

Effective writing requires a strong command of language and writing skills. Not everyone possesses the same level of proficiency or mastery of the written language, which can result in barriers to comprehension and miscommunication. Language barriers can further limit the reach and impact of written communication in multicultural or international contexts.

Incomplete Conveyance of Intonation and Emotion

Writing struggles to capture the subtleties of intonation, emphasis, and emotional nuances present in oral communication. Sarcasm, irony, humour, or empathy may not be conveyed as effectively in writing, leading to potential misunderstandings or the loss of intended meaning.

Difficulty in Conveying Complex or Abstract Ideas

Some concepts or ideas are inherently challenging to express in writing, especially when they are complex, abstract, or multidimensional. Writing may struggle to capture intricate details, spatial relationships, sensory experiences, or intricate thought processes as effectively as other forms of communication.

Limited Access to Context

Writing often lacks the immediate context in which it was produced. Without the benefit of real-time interaction, readers may lack crucial background information, shared experiences, or the ability to seek immediate clarification. This can lead to misinterpretation, incomplete understanding, or an inability to fully grasp the intended message.

Understanding the limitations of writing can help us approach it with a critical eye and employ strategies to mitigate these limitations. This can include providing additional context, using clear and concise language, incorporating visual aids where appropriate, seeking opportunities for interactive discussion, and leveraging alternative forms of communication to complement and enhance the written word.

The Transition from Pictographic to Phonetic

The transition from pictographic to phonetic writing systems marked a significant turning point in the history of writing. Phonetic systems, such as alphabets or syllabaries, represented sounds rather than objects or ideas directly. This allowed for greater flexibility and expressiveness in conveying language. The development of phonetic scripts, such as the Phoenician alphabet, the Greek alphabet, and eventually the Latin alphabet, paved the way for the written communication systems used in many languages today.

The history of pictorial-based writing spans across several ancient civilizations and cultures. From the Sumerians and Egyptians to the Mayans and Chinese, pictographic systems were the precursors to more advanced writing systems that emerged later. These early forms of communication laid the foundation for the development of written languages and played a vital role in preserving and transmitting knowledge throughout human history.

Writing is an art form

Writing is not just a means of communication; it is an art form that has evolved throughout history. It encompasses the distillation of sensory information and has taken various formats in different civilizations. From the analysis of iconography, hieroglyphics, and cuneiform to the pictorial writing systems of Japanese and Chinese cultures, writing has been a powerful tool for expression.

However, despite the significance of art and its intrinsic connection to communication, it is often undervalued in school curriculums. This is particularly evident in some parts of the African continent, where teachers are instructed to prioritize core subjects over artistic pursuits. Yet, this narrow focus neglects the role of art in the learning process and the unique skills it can unlock in students.

Dyslexia, now recognized globally, sheds light on the limitations of a solely written form of expression. Dyslexic thinking, associated with the condition, reveals that children with dyslexia often excel in other areas of expression. Their spatial thinking, problem-solving abilities, and creative approach to the world provide unique perspectives that are often overlooked in traditional educational systems.

Moreover, research indicates that an exclusive emphasis on the written format restricts the development of students’ senses. As individuals, we possess diverse ways of perceiving and engaging with the world, and stifling artistic abilities denies humanity the extraordinary gifts that can emerge.

Sadly, it is not uncommon for a child’s interest in pursuing artistic endeavours to be discouraged due to a loss of understanding regarding the true nature of art. Art, in its essence, is a form of communication. Whether it is visual arts, performing arts, or any other medium, art enables individuals to convey messages and emotions. While the perception of art may have been muddled by the rise of modern art movements, it is important to recognize the historical significance of artists as masters, whose creative thinking plays a pivotal role in achieving mastery.

Organizations like Made By Dyslexia and Noticeability have championed dyslexic thinking, highlighting its benefits and raising awareness of the successes achieved by dyslexic individuals. The statistics show that approximately one in five people globally possess dyslexic traits, indicating a prevalence of ingenious talent and a brain wired towards creativity. Harnessing and nurturing these talents can lead to extraordinary contributions to society.

The strengths of people with dyslexia often lie within Spatial awareness and visual learning and expressive methodology.

The importance of spatial awareness and visual learning today

Spatial thinking and visual learning play a crucial role in today’s tech-driven world. Here are some reasons why they are important:

Problem Solving and Innovation

Spatial thinking involves the ability to mentally manipulate and understand objects and their relationships in physical or abstract spaces. In the tech world, spatial thinking is essential for problem-solving, especially in areas such as computer graphics, user interface design, and data visualization. Engineers, designers, and programmers often rely on spatial thinking to create innovative solutions, envision complex systems, and optimize user experiences.

User Interface and Experience Design

Visual learning and spatial thinking are integral to designing user interfaces (UI) and user experiences (UX) in software and digital products. Clear and intuitive interfaces are essential for user engagement and satisfaction. Visual elements, such as icons, layouts, and colour schemes, help users navigate and interact with technology more effectively. Designers must think spatially to organize information, create meaningful visual hierarchies, and ensure that user interfaces are aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly.

Data Visualization

With the exponential growth of data, the ability to visualize and understand complex information has become increasingly important. Visual learning allows us to process and interpret large datasets more efficiently. Data visualization techniques, including charts, graphs, and infographics, enable us to spot patterns, identify trends, and gain insights from data. Spatial thinking helps in representing data in a visually meaningful and impactful manner, making it easier for individuals and organizations to make informed decisions.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Spatial thinking and visual learning are fundamental to the development and utilization of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies. These immersive technologies rely on spatial understanding to create realistic and interactive virtual environments. VR and AR applications span various industries, including gaming, education, training, architecture, and healthcare. Spatial thinking and visual learning are essential for designing and navigating virtual spaces, manipulating virtual objects, and creating immersive user experiences.

Communication and Collaboration

Spatial thinking and visual learning enhance communication and collaboration in the tech world. Concepts and ideas can be more effectively conveyed and understood through visual representations. Diagrams, sketches, flowcharts, and wireframes facilitate clearer communication among team members, especially when working remotely or across different disciplines. Visualizing ideas helps bridge gaps in understanding, fosters creativity, and facilitates more efficient problem-solving.

Creativity and Artistic Expression

Spatial thinking and visual learning are vital for artistic expression in the tech world. Digital art, graphic design, animation, and multimedia production heavily rely on spatial thinking skills to create visually captivating and engaging content. Artists and designers leverage spatial understanding to compose images, balance visual elements, and manipulate space and perspective in their creations.

Spatial thinking and visual learning have become increasingly important in today’s tech-driven world. They contribute to problem-solving, user interface design, data visualization, virtual and augmented reality experiences, communication, collaboration, and artistic expression. Developing and nurturing these skills can significantly enhance one’s ability to understand, create, and interact with technology effectively.

What we are doing in Africa

In Africa, an awareness campaign called Dyslexic Thinking Africa aims to localize information and establish an online learning platform. The goal is to improve schools and teaching methods by sowing appropriate seeds in fertile ground. Collaborative partnerships are sought to amplify this message and make a lasting impact on the education system.

https://www.youtube.com/@DTAfrica

A picture is worth a thousand words.