Doodling: Creative Expression or A Class Distraction?

By Ethan Franchesci

January 15, 2026

Doodling is a common habit in classrooms, but opinions differ on whether it helps students focus or distracts them from learning. At Urban Assembly Maker Academy, a school built around creativity, students and teachers shared mixed views on the role doodling plays in class.

Doodling is the act of sketching absentmindedly, often while listening or thinking. In many schools, it is discouraged, but some students say it helps them express themselves and stay focused.

“Because I want to be an artist one day,” said Jacob Alonzo, 15, when asked why he doodles. “I want to get a scholarship to St. Cruise University for graphic design.”

Other students said being told to stop drawing can feel discouraging. “When a teacher tells me to stop doodling, I feel upset,” said Emma Guzman, 14, a freshman at UA Maker. “I’m going to erase it after anyway.”

Teachers said their main concern is whether doodling interferes with learning. “I think doodling can be helpful, especially if students are doing doodle notes or processing information,” said Keisha Darius, a journalism teacher. “But if it gets in the way of their work, then it becomes a problem.”

Chekesha Thomas, a reading interventionist and health teacher, said doodling can sometimes be connected to emotional needs. “Some students have anxiety or stress, and drawing can help them focus,” she said. “But they should not be doodling when it is time for instructions or before completing their work.”

Other teachers agreed that there is a balance. “I think doodling can help some students focus,” said Maddie Isaac, 12th Grade Government and Economics teacher. “But there is a point where it can become distracting.”

At UA Maker, many teachers allow doodling when it is done at appropriate times and does not interrupt learning. For some students, drawing is a creative outlet. For others, it can become a distraction.

As classrooms continue to explore different ways students learn best, doodling remains a practice that challenges schools to balance creativity with focus.