Overview

Plan and apply design research activities to gain insights in relation to a given design challenge. The purpose is to uncover insights and identify potential opportunities for change. The module involves exploring and understanding a range of human centred research methods, and requires learners to evaluate and plan appropriate research methods. Learners will undertake research activities and evaluate findings.

Referencing; Research planning; Human centred; User trips; Empathy maps; Focus groups; Interview; Empathetic research; Market analysis; Product positioning maps, and Data capture and Analysis methods

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -50-59% Knowledge of key area/principles. Understands the main elements of the subject area. Limited evidence of background study. Some weaknesses in presentation and accuracy -good -60-69%. Strong knowledge • Understands most but not all of the subject area • Evidence of background study. Good presentation with accurate communication -excellent -70% or above. Comprehensive knowledge • Detailed understanding of subject area • Extensive background study. Excellent presentation with very accurate communication

Learning Outcomes

• Define research aims, and research question. Assess and identify appropriate research methodologies.

• Demonstrate a critical understanding of practitioner issues, for example in carrying out research projects, and can reflect on the researcher's own position in the process.

• Synthesise data in order to present salient findings and insights.

• Undertakes analysis of complex, incomplete or contradictory evidence/data and judges the appropriateness of the enquiry methodologies used. Recognises and argues for alternative approaches.