Designing Research (M)

This course explores a variety of understandings and methods of undertaking and delivering `research'. Research is understood as the organised activity of focused observation, recording, analysis and documented communication of a determined point of investigation. Students review a number of traditional and formalised methods for undertaking and disseminating the findings of such inquiries which are typically text-based and sequential. In addition, and appropriate to the subject under investigation, students are also encouraged to explore variations where the design process itself is proposed as a parallel potential research methodology. Based on a series of examples presented, students are required to develop their own research frameworks and proposals which demonstrate an understanding of the principles, structure and purpose of research.