In my life class, once you start to be competent with the measuring and able to draw the figure in proportion, you are encouraged to develop your skills. For example, doing quick sketches helps build your confidence, plus quicken the learning process.
Also, after only a few sketches, you will start to enjoy capturing the main elements of the human form quickly. This also starts to allow you to be more creative in the drawing process. Working quickly you will draw differently, opening up more creative possibilities. Drawing and painting are not to correctly copy what's in front of you, but your interpretation of it; or you making a statement about the subject.