GSML 535: Design-led Research Methods

This course builds on the experience of Design Seminar I and begins to introduce students to emerging models of practice-based research and research-based practice. Students become familiar with design-led and qualitative research methodologies that aid research outcomes and inform design projects. Students develop the ability to contextualize their practice with reference to critical inquiry while acquiring the tools to conduct relevant research. Self-reflective and reflexive practice is emphasized as 'thinking through making' research activity. Methods may include: archival research, action research, ethnography, participant observations, contextual inquiry, co-designing, empathy or cultural probes, surveys, questionnaires, interviews, collages, mindmaps, modeling, photography, and diagramming. This course presents a discursive and multimodal approach to research practice that supports students in framing a proposed thesis project