Design Research: Methods and Design Research: Communication are a suite of two units where you will explore the relationship between research and contemporary design practice and develop key skills in undertaking and communicating design research. The units provide the foundation for Advanced Design Research projects in the Master of Architecture.

Design Research: Methods focuses on the conventions, methodologies and techniques for undertaking research within design disciplines. You will be introduced to contemporary and emergent fields of research in design through lectures and seminars, presentations from design researchers in academia and practice, and via seminal and contemporary texts. You will develop critical skills for searching, reading and discussing theories and ideas and exploring the value and application of design research methodologies in different contexts, including multi- and interdisciplinary research projects. You will also gain an understanding of responsibility and accountability in the ethical conduct of design research. In the second half of semester, you will focus on a design research approach aligned with your practice and disciplinary specialisation and undertake a detailed critical evaluation through text and other relevant media.