Research has always been an important part of university-based design. Methods from various disciplines in technology, the sciences and humanities have found their way into design education. But the reverse movement has been more recent: researchers using design as a method to do research.
Under the label ‘research through design’, design scholars have looked at the ways in which doing design is a means to create not (only) a specific solution, but (also) to create knowledge that can be used by others for other situations.
The discussions about how design can be a part of research have highlighted several themes:
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- A new understanding of knowledge outcomes;
- An awareness of the role of prototypes and artefacts in creating knowledge;
- A mapping of the methods and processes used to do the above;
- A need for new ways of sharing the insights.
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In this course we dive into the literature, gather and discuss examples, and together formulate tips and guidelines for how designers can use their design capabilities to create research results.
Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:
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- Understand the role of research in science, engineering and design;
- Participate in a discussion and evaluation of practical and theoretical issues regarding research through design;
- Place new research through design discussions in the context of current academic literature.
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The sessions will be moderated by prof. Stappers and prof. Giaccardi (TU Delft).