The Design Research module embeds learners in design methodologies and methods used to uncover the needs, goals, and behaviours of diverse customers, users and stakeholders. Through a combination of theoretical concepts and hands-on research activities, learners will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct design research effectively and use their insights to drive the development of successful products, services, and innovations. Through self-reflection and critique, learners will identify their own biases and develop strategies to mitigate against them.
Introduction to Design Research and Research Methods
• The strategic value of design research in driving successful products, services, and innovations• Approaches in design research (e.g., primary, secondary, quantitative, qualitative, attitudinal, behavioural)• An overview of design research methods and tools• Theoretical research frameworks
Effective Research Planning and Communication
• Crafting hypotheses, research questions and measurement plans • Selecting the appropriate research method• Planning, recruitment, sampling, and data collection strategies• Analysis and modelling techniques• Synthesis and documentation of insights and findings• Effective communication and presentation of research findings
Ethics in Practice
• Introduction to ethical best practices in design research• Ensuring the privacy of research participants, data security and GDPR• Identifying potential biases that can influence research studies and outcomes• Employing inclusive practices and diverse perspectives in design research
Strategic Research Methods and Analysis
• Literature review and analysis of existing data• Competitive and brand audits• SWOT analysis• Competitive user testing
Qualitative Research Methods and Analysis
• Stakeholder interviews for needs understanding• Stakeholder engagement workshops• Jobs-to-be-Done framework for motivations• Ethnography and field studies• Surveying and polling for data gathering• Preferences and attitudes in focus groups• Card sorting for information architecture• Rapid design experiments for validation• Heuristic analysis for usability evaluation• User testing for design iterations
Quantitative Research Methods and Analysis
• Using analytics to gather and analyse quantitative data• Conducting split and A/B testing to evaluate design alternatives
The module employs lectures and presentations that introduce a theoretical grounding in design research methods and best practices, hands-on workshops, collaborative exercises, and practical research activities to develop skills and knowledge in research methods, data synthesis and the identification of findings and insights.
Assessment for the module is suitable for integration with complementary modules, or with an external business, community or civic sponsor.
Assessment outputs may be suitable for inclusion in a digital design portfolio.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |