How to Explain Design Research To Your Friends

Thomas, Nekita; Benson, Eric; Pridemore, Joshua; Strickland, Holly; Stephens, Noelyn; Xiao, Yiqi

Permalink

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/126076 Copy

Description

Title

How to Explain Design Research To Your Friends

Author(s)

• Thomas, Nekita
• Benson, Eric
• Pridemore, Joshua
• Strickland, Holly
• Stephens, Noelyn
• Xiao, Yiqi

Issue Date

2023-11-29

Keyword(s)

• Design Research
• Responsible Innovation
• Design Impact
• Social Impact

Date of Ingest

2025-02-28T21:00:01-06:00

Abstract

Drawing inspiration from Paulo Freire's liberation pedagogy, this paper proposes a shift from the traditional ‘banking’ model to a 'problem-posing' approach in design research. Replacing one-directional knowledge flows (from educators to students) in favor of active questioning and reflection to demystify the often-complex definition of design-based research through personal storytelling, akin to explaining a complex topic to a friend. This paper aims to empower individual researchers to articulate design research in their own terms, broadening the spectrum of knowledge creation in the field. Design educators and graduate students in social innovation share insights, fostering discussions on the nature of design research and preparation of early-stage researchers for socially engaged pursuits. Emphasizing the value of diversity and individuality in design practices, this accessible and inclusive strategy critiques traditional methods, creating space for discussions on the future of design education. This paper aims to serve as a compass for early-stage researchers and social design programs, inspiring adaptations to meet our increasingly complex and diverse world. In conversation with our friends to explain design-based research, the ultimate goal here is to promote a diverse, accessible, and responsible approach to design research, better preparing the field to address evolving real-world problems.

Publisher

Design Research Society

Series/Report Name or Number

Learn X Design 2023

Type of Resource

text

Genre of Resource

conference paper

Language

eng

DOI

doi.org/10.21606/drslxd.2024.114

Copyright and License Information

• Nekita Thomas
• Eric Benson
• Joshua Pridemore
• Holly Strickland
• Noelyn Stephens
• Yiqi Xiao

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