Module manager: Muhammed Uzair
Email: m.u.ahmad@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
Research methods for Design
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module will review current thinking on design research and will introduce a range of research methods with practical application to digital design futures, which may be employed in the student's specialist project. Social and ethical issues will be discussed. Students will read widely on their topic and select the most relevant sources.
This module gives students the opportunity to:
1. Learn and understand a range of research methods that can be applied within a human-centred design context.
2. Select and use appropriate research methods to support the development of design projects.
3. Acquire and improve the key competencies necessary to evaluate design ideas.
On completion of this module, students will have provided evidence of being able to:
1. Search, access and critically review reliable literature in your chosen area effectively.
2. Critically analyse the current needs of users in relation to advanced future design scenarios.
3. Analyse the characteristics of selected research methods and evaluate their effectiveness for their own research.
Skills Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
4. Develop skills to identify and apply appropriate conceptual, practical and research methods for your chosen topic.
5. Develop abilities to synthesise the literature to support your project planning, execution and evaluation.
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| seminars | 11 | 2 | 22 |
| Private study hours | 118 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 32 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
Formative feedback will be provided to students as part of a formative assignment that they will complete. Other resources and tips will be provided to students through their engagement in the practicals.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Literature Review | Literature review 2000 – 2500 words | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 25/08/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team