A Case Study Examining the Influence of the Road Drawing Directive on CASAS Reading GOALS Scores
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Author
Cowan, Andrea
Date
2021
Degree
Master of Arts in Art Therapy
Abstract
Research on literacy describes reading and learning as a multidimensional process. It is also
understood that reading difficulties do not disappear with age. In fact, students with learning
difficulties can struggle with ongoing anxiety and feelings of low self-worth. This
pretest/posttest pilot study identified how the Road Drawing directive can effect participant
scores of the CASAS (Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment System) Reading GOALS
(Greater Opportunities for Adult Learning Success) assessment. Young adulthood is a critical
time for examining career motivation and an individual’s plan. With nearly half of young adults
in America reading below an 8th-grade level, finding alternative methods for boosting literacy
levels for this population is long overdue. Research points towards incorporating aspects of the
creative arts to improve literacy levels. The CASAS Reading GOALS assessment as a pretest
and posttest measure was taken by the adult (over 18 years of age) study participant and resulted
in a 9-point score improvement on the CASAS/GOALS assessment following the art therapy
directive. This outcome indicated that an art intervention could potentially improve literacy and
be considered an additional resource for adult literacy programs, however, the use of an art
making activity between tests to improve literacy requires further study.