RESEARCH METHODS IN DESIGN

DS 679

Course Description

Future designers need to have critical research knowledge and skillsets that include mastery of various research methods, related issues, and practical experiences in understanding and interpreting quantitative or qualitative research. Design research allows designers to be involved directly with objects, products, and environments they design through human-centered inquiry. The major concepts addressed include design research and its influence on the practice of design, generating research questions, critical literature review, research evaluation, data management and analysis, and various research strategies, all geared toward application to various design practices.

Prerequisties

Senior standing

Satisfies

This course does not satisfy any prerequisites.

Credits

Not Reported

Offered

Not Reported

Grade Point Average

3.79

No change from Historical

Completion Rate

100%

No change from Historical

A Rate

70.97%

No change from Historical

Class Size

100% from Historical

Instructors (2025 Fall)

Sorted by ratings from Rate My Professors

Similar Courses

USER EXPERIENCE FOR GRAPHIC DESIGN

ART 575

A project-based introduction to the examination of user experience, and is oriented toward practical methods for approaching a design problem. The focus of the course is to develop conceptual design based on the needs of users. Students will receive grounding in user research methods, design sketching, and design validation.

VISUAL THINKING - FORM AND SPACE

DS 140

Manual and digital techniques for idea exploration, concept development, and design presentation using a variety of media. Projects in hand drawing techniques and professional design software. Gain heightened attention to detail; understand the relationship of two-dimensional drawings and three-dimensional objects; explore multiple design solutions visually; convey technical information, and professionally communicate design concepts. Introduce visual communication, visual thinking, visual inspiration and visual representation

COLLABORATIVE DESIGN CAPSTONE

DS 650

Culminates design education through real-world challenges. Develops critical thinking, creativity, innovation for effective solutions. Emphasizes collaborative teamwork within multidisciplinary groups. Guides portfolio development, underscoring growth and versatility as a designer. Topics include defining problems through research, conceptualizing solutions, designing prototypes and interfaces, conducting user testing, and implementing designs.

WHAT IS DESIGN?

DS 123

Design is a key component of our daily lives and can profoundly affect all people. But how? And to what end? What does design mean and what can it do for us? Interrogate those questions by looking broadly at the place of design in everyday life, and how design intersects with society, economics, politics, the environment, and culture. Study the form, function, and philosophy of design, from what we wear on our bodies to how we move through the world. Ground discussions in close observation and analysis of previous design solutions, leading to innovative approaches to the roles, and responsibilities, of design for the future.

DESIGN THINKING FOR TRANSFORMATION

DS 341

Learn design thinking techniques to enhance creative analysis and problem solving. Directly apply those techniques to a variety of human centered design challenges. Innovate, prototype, and test designs that address real-word problems with real-world constraints and the limitations of technology. Projects range from ways to improve everyday situations to community issues.