MDS5031 - Research methods in design

Leader(s): Dr Karen Burns

Offered

Caulfield First semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit provides a critical framework in which research graduates in design test and shape the theoretical content of their work for the initial stages of the studio research. The unit assists students in establishing an appropriate combination of intuition and science in the analysis of existing designs and the formulation of new design concepts. Examples are taken from various design areas but with methodological implications beyond any given specialisation.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to

1. define an area of design which requires development or is not adequately served by existing designs ;
2. identify the research methods and strategies necessary to establish the state of the art in a design area;
3. engage case studies on a critical basis and appreciate methodology as a critique of method;
4. assess the benefit of a range of methods from design, the physical and social sciences as well as the humanities in pointing to design problems and solutions and be able to determine strategies for the deployment of methods in particular projects;
5. identify the intentions of their design project and appreciate the values by which the work may be scrutinized;
6. be able to express the aesthetic, social, environmental, functional, technical, symbolic and ideological relevance of their work.

Assessment

Assignment 1 (1500 words): 25%

Assignment 2 (3500 words): 75%

Contact hours

2 hour seminar and 10 independent study hours per week

Co-requisites

Admission in MDesign (by research)

Prohibitions

ADM5001