Within the design disciplines, the term “research” is commonly used to encompass a wide range of activities from knowledge gathering to experimentation to representation. There are seemingly competing calls to, on the one hand, strengthen research capacity and rigor, and on the other, expand the confines of what is considered research for landscape architects and others in the built environment. To have a productive dialogue about the role and potential of design research, a shared understanding of the term is important not only for faculty and students but also professional practitioners.

So what is design research and how should it be defined? What questions are being asked and answered (or not) through design research? What are current and emerging models and methods for design research?  

In this interactive webinar, three experts will explore this thorny term with assistance from attendees. Through their particular lenses, the panelists will frame design research, discuss its multiplicities and nuances, and provide examples of design research in action. An optional 15-minute Q&A will follow the one-hour webinar.