The Interpretation of children's drawings : guidelines for teachers

Abstract

The primary aim of this research was to determine whether teachers in their initial or in-service training have acquired a basic knowledge of the interpretation of children's drawings of human figure. A literature study was done in which the focus was placed on major aspects such as: • The normal development of children's drawings according to different stages, and • Those drawings that deviate from the normal development and their implications. • Reliability of children's drawings as a projective tool. A measuring instrument was developed in order to measure the basic knowledge of teachers with regard to the interpretation of children's drawings of human figure. The results of the empirical research indicated that teachers have limited basic knowledge with regard to the interpretation of children's drawings. The educational implications with reference to teachers, education system and other professionals were discussed. Recommendations for further research on similar topics were made.