Design Research Dissertation

26/9/2025 - 26/12/2025 (Week 1 - Week 14)
Daphne Lai Yu Cheng / 0366380
DIS 60304 / Design Research Dissertation / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media / Taylors' University

Design Research Dissertation Final Compilation

---

CONTENT LIST

1. Module Brief (MIB)
2. TASK 1: RESEARCH IMPLEMENTATION - DRAFT DISSERTATION
3. TASK 2: VISUAL DESIGN PUBLICATION
4. TASK 3: FINAL DISSERTATION & TURNITIN REPORT
5. TASK 4: ARTICLE PUBLICATION
6. Weekly Feedback

---

INSTRUCTIONS

---

TASK 1: RESEARCH IMPLEMENTATION - DRAFT DISSERTATION

Figure 1.1 Design Research Dissertation Draft (PDF)

---

TASK 2: VISUAL DESIGN PUBLICATION

Figure 2.1 Visual Design Publication Moodboard (PDF)

Figure 2.2 Visual Design Publication (PDF)

Figure 2.3 Visual Design Publication (Flip HTML)

---

TASK 3: FINAL DISSERTATION & TURNITIN REPORT

Figure 3.1 Final Dissertation & Turnitin Report (PDF)

Figure 3.2 Final Dissertation & Turnitin Report (PDF)

---

TASK 4: ARTICLE PUBLICATION

Figure 4.1 KREATE Article Publication (PDF)

---

WEEKLY FEEDBACK

Figure 5.1 Weekly Feedback Form (PDF)

---

REFLECTION

Experience

Throughout these 14 weeks, this design research dissertation module has been the most challenging module I have taken. Compared to the previous Design Research Methodology module, this dissertation required deeper and more refined academic writing. The research and writing process was stressful and exhausting as writing is not my strongest skill.

The most difficult part of this module was conducting the literature review, as my research topic is quite underexplored. This made it challenging to find relevant academic sources and required me to carefully evaluate limited materials while making sure they were suitable for my research. Tasks 1 and 3 were particularly challenging because they require refining and restructuring my writing content from the Design Research Methodology module. 

In contrast, Tasks 2 and 4 were more manageable. Task 2 allowed me to apply my design skills through publication design while Task 4 involved writing an article.

Observation

Through this module, I observed that design research requires not only creativity but also strong analytical and writing skills. A clear research framework and well defined research questions are essential to guide the entire research process. I also realised that research ideas often need to be revisited, refined and rewritten multiple times to achieve clarity and coherence.

Another key observation was the importance of time management. Working on an underexplored topic requires additional effort in sourcing materials and justifying design decisions.

Findings

From completing this dissertation, I have gained a deeper understanding of the design research process. Despite the challenges, the module significantly improved my research skills, critical thinking and ability to articulate ideas more clearly.

I also learned that research writing improves through continuous practice and revision. Although the process was stressful, it has provided me with valuable knowledge and experience that I can apply in future academic research and design projects.

Overall, despite the challenges and difficulties faced throughout this module, I am happy that I was able to successfully complete it. The process has been demanding but rewarding and it has contributed significantly to my growth in research and design.