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The Learning Log

As part of the coursework on OCA programmes, all students keep a learning log.

The log is an important tool in developing your creative practice and recording growing understanding of your subject. It also shows that you have covered all the ground required by the course.

For degree, diploma and certificate students, the log is considered as part of the assessment process and contributes towards your final mark.

The exact content of the log depends on the course. Typically it records ideas, drawings, sketches, notes, influences, discoveries, thoughts, research findings and observations as you work through your course and your assignments.

For example, in art history courses the log is made up of notebooks and sketchbooks recording your reactions to individual works of art, comments on exhibitions, paintings and fine art objects, and research notes on artists, periods and movements.

In creative writing, the log takes the form of a writer’s diary of notes, ideas and observations, your responses to other writers, and a reflective account of your own creative work.
In art, design and photography courses, the log typically takes in sketchbooks, written commentaries on your work, a research file, your reactions to other artists, and project plans and commentaries.

In composing music the log will record personal reactions to pieces of music and performances, and work in progress.

While the OCA calls this important part of the course a ‘learning log’ you may also hear it referred to as a ‘learning journal’, a ‘personal learning journal’, 'log book' or ‘reflective journal’.