TDN3001 - Research for design - 2018

This unit develops the capacity to understand and apply the methodologies of current design research practice. Through using research processes appropriate to their discipline, students will investigate contemporary issues that penetrate the links between design, society and the environment. They will be required to use their research to uncover existing knowledge; use it to articulate and substantiate an argument; and build on it to formulate their own critically informed ideas. Through acquired research skills students will be able to interrogate a range of contemporary design issues drawn from the perceived moral dichotomies of design: useful/useless, social conscience/private indulgence, essential need/unnecessary consumption, luxury/necessity, and so on.

On successful completion of this unit, students will:

1. Demonstrate a capacity to undertake design research appropriate to their level;
2. Understand and apply current design research practices and methodologies;
3. Clearly articulate ideas with reference to their research both verbally and in written form;
4. Critically analyse the currency of design practice;
5. Construct an argument informed by thorough and appropriate research methods;
6. Successfully plan and manage their research

Written assignment (2000 words): 30%

Essay (3000 words) including class presentation: 70%

On-campus: One 1-hour lecture and one 2-hour tutorial plus 9 independent

See also Unit timetable information