Research and Development in Practice module (DJ51019)
Learn research methods relevant to contemporary art and design practice. You develop skills in critical thinking, research design, and communication
This module develops your knowledge and skills in research methods relevant to your discipline and creative practice. A weekly lecture programme, followed by seminars and group discussions, explores a broad range of approaches to research in art and design.
Topics include structuring critical thinking, qualitative and quantitative methods, practice as research, contextual review, research ethics, decolonising methodologies, participatory research, and disseminating research. Case studies demonstrate how these approaches work across different areas of practice. Lectures are delivered by the module lead and other staff from across Art and Design, including PhD students and visiting fellows when available.
You'll develop the research skills needed to support your studio practice across other modules. Through a series of formative tasks, including an abstract and a critical review in preparation for the final assessment, you'll build confidence in communicating your research interests to peers and supervisors.
What you will learn
In this module, you will:
- Understand a range of research methods applicable to your practice in art and design
- Develop skills in structuring critical thinking, contextual review, and research design
- Communicate research interests and complex ideas in visual and text-based formats
- Manage your own research process with increasing independence
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Interrogate a body of work and derive new critical understanding
- Demonstrate understanding of research methods applicable to your own practice
- Transfer knowledge and understanding into and through practice
- Communicate research interests through a visual or text-based research presentation
Assignments / assessments
Coursework (100%): Research Poster or Portfolio
- MDes/MSc students: Research Poster
- MFA Fine Art and MFA Curatorial Practice students: Research Portfolio
This module does not have a final exam.
Teaching methods / timetable
- Weekly lectures by module staff and Art and Design colleagues
- Group discussions and tutorials, including case studies
- Formative tasks related to lecture and seminar topics
- Peer discussion and research presentations
- Personal supervision and feedback from teaching staff
Courses
This module is available on the following courses: