IDE030F

Active

Design Research: Theory and Perspectives

5

Third-cycle course

7342 (Department of Design Sciences / Industrial Design)

 -09-30

FN3/Per Tunestål

English

If sufficient demand

The aim of the course is to introduce, problematise and critically examine central topics of design research, including theoretical perspectives, methodology, and topical areas, in the field of industrial design and related areas.

Furthermore, the course aims to put central issues of design research and process into perspective, such as theory development, approach, rigour, and evaluation.

The course includes fundamental aspects of thinking, making and learning as part of the practice of doing research in the field of design.

Furthermore, approaches, perspectives and theoretical foundations, which are central for design research, are discussed and related to students' own research projects.

The course covers the following areas:
- Fundamentals and structure of design research
- Rigour and trustworthiness in design research
- Design reasoning models, generic strategies and world views
- Approaches to design research inquiry
- Examples of topical areas of design research inquiry

be able to explain and use basic concepts in design research
show an awareness and understanding of the nature of design research in the field of industrial design and related areas
demonstrate knowledge of the variety of methodological approaches in design research and their fit with various research aims or questions
show an understanding of the different levels of learning and their relation to third cycle studies (cf Biggs, 1999)

formulate, motivate and critically reflect, verbally and in writing, upon research topics, objectives and learning outcomes in design research
assess and select appropriate approaches for research within a given topic
critically examine and judge rigour, such as validity and reliability, in relation to approach and topic

demonstrate insight into and ability to critical view towards possibilities and limitations of different methodological approaches for given topic areas
exhibit an understanding of the implications of choice of research approach on the quality and nature of the findings
understand and assess the contribution of design research in general and for specific topics, in relation to knowledge creation and societal needs

Lectures

Seminars

Exercises

The course consists of self studies, lectures, seminars and workshop exercises.

Written report

Seminars given by participants

Active participation in critical reflection and discussion individually and in group work is a requirement for achieving a passing grade.

Failed, pass

Participants are expected to be enrolled to doctoral studies or do the course in preparation for research studies.

Participants are expected to have knowledge on an advanced level of design or relevant areas, and to have a written research proposal or formulated a research question for their project.

 

Course material will be distributed prior to the course. Additional material will if needed be distributed during the course.

The course is delivered upon request, given that a sufficient number of students have shown an interest for the course.

IDE030F

2022-08-29

Åsa Håkansson