One of the first questions my students ask is:
"Ma'am, why should we learn how to draw when there are so many new softwares to do the same??"
We wonder whether the art of drawing will get obsolete just as the art of cursive writing is being replaced by typing. Unfortunately we have not yet reached that rosy future where what you think can be created into a visual digitally.
1) Question Why you need to draw.
Your purpose to learn how to draw is essential. What are the reasons you need to draw? Is it helping you in your profession ( creatives....) or is it a pastime you need to destress with? If you are a creative, you have just no other option. You may learn a fancy software or a google sketchup, but to use it optimally and to full extent, everyone needs to learn the basics of drawing.
2) Explain things visually
In the facebook and instagram world of today, each visual speaks a thousand words and you have many many visually competing for your attention. People are said to respond more to information with visuals. Many a corporate presentation has been made more effective , enhanced by the basic skill of drawing on a whiteboard. With visuals, you can communicate with anybody, even if you don't understand thier language.
3) Software has limitations, you do not!
You may be very good in the digital medium, but unless you are confident about your understanding of drawing, you would be highly limited by the scope of the software. Drawing allows you to explore beyond what is availible on a software.
4) Improves your ability to observe and visualise
Drawing is the first step to Creativity. Once you start drawing/ sketching, it rewires your brain. The right side of your brain gets triggered to be more creative, leading you to come up with more solutions in real life.
5) You can destress and have fun.
If this is a hobby for you, you live a charmed life. You can sail through every event in your life, recorded as a visual. And... you can improve your digital images much better if you understand the basics of drawing.