Module manager: Dr Yuchan Zhang
Email: Y.Zhang15@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: 1 Mar to 30 Apr, 1 Mar to 30 Apr (2mth)(adv yr), 1 Sep to 31 Oct, 1 Sep to 31 Oct (adv yr) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
Students are required to meet the programme entry requirements prior to studying the module.
N/A
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module will introduce the fundamental knowledge of what research is and what research could be done in, with and for design. Through literature and case studies, students will explore and investigate the processes and methods to successfully research digital design and communication-related issues. By completing this module, students will establish an awareness of using research to develop, enhance and evaluate effective design solutions.
This module gives students the opportunity to:
1. Acquire and develop the key competencies necessary to be a critical reader of published research.
2. Understand the nature of research and research methods.
3. Generate awareness of using research in digital design and communication.
On completion of this module, students will have provided evidence of being able to:
1. Examine and evaluate reliable literature in the area of design effectively and critically.
2. Demonstrate the ability to explore current research issues and challenges in digital design and communication.
3. Demonstrate an awareness of using research to develop, enhance and evaluate effectiveness in the delivery of design solutions.
Indicative content for this module includes:
1. What is research
2. Design research
3. Using literature
4. Research process
5. Planning research
6. Research methods
Through examining literature and case studies, students will analyse design research examples to discover current issues and common research methods in digital design and communication.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-line Learning | 6 | 1 | 6 |
| Discussion forum | 6 | 2 | 12 |
| Independent online learning hours | 12 | ||
| Private study hours | 120 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 18 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
Independent online learning (12 hours):
Online learning materials provide links to appropriate journal papers, books, videos and websites. Students need to plan their own time to study these instructional and supporting materials independently before and after synchronised sessions.
To gain confidence to develop and articulate their own ideas, students will engage in private study (120 hours):
- Literature search and reading: 42 hours
- Preparation and evaluation of assessed work: 78 hours
Online learning materials will provide regular opportunity for students to check their understanding (for example through formative MCQs with automated feedback). Regular group activity embedded into learning will allow self and peer assessment providing opportunities for formative feedback from peers and tutor.
The individual unit webinars and discussion forums provide opportunities for formative feedback from peers and tutors.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Research Plan | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Resit will be by submission of a new Research Plan.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team