MCEN 4228/5228: Design Research Theory and Methods

Spring, 3 credits, T/TH 3:30pm-4:45pm

Instructor: Grace Burleson

Course Description

This course provides an in-depth introduction to design science research, focusing on the scientific study of how people/teams develop new products, systems, and services. Students will develop skills to systematically and critically analyze and improve the processes of innovation and creation.

The course is organized into three main sections:

  • Overview of design theory and methods
  • Design Research Special Topics (such as analogy, cognition, creativity, sustainability, co-design)
  • Design Research Methodology (experimental, ethnographic, phenomenological, and research through design)

Course’s main project:

  • Students will research a design topic of their choice! (Applicable for both academic and industry career goals)