Constructing Knowledge of Design , Part 2 : Questions — an approach to design research

Fundamental to research at the Institute of Design is generation of a carefully constructed, robust question. This question emerges from the faculty developed research agenda with its five domains of interest matrixed against three research foci. Central to the development of particular research from this matrix is the generation of research questions. The question-based approach provides two significant benefits: social agreement on the importance of the question, and exploration of linguistic variation and specificity that leads to a more precise research question and method for answer. Two example questions demonstrate deconstructive strategies and evolutionary development. Following agreement on the question, research methods are developed and a pilot study is run as preparation for original research.