An overview of research methods in visual communication design education

• Main Author: Yeo, Jesvin Puay-Hwa
• Other Authors: School of Art, Design and Media
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: 2016
• Subjects: research methodology; design research; art & design education; visual communication design
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/79717; http://hdl.handle.net/10220/40398
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

The article presents a review of studies done on research in visual communication design education. According to reviews, the design practice in visual communication design education has shifted from an emphasis on training in traditional vocational courses to a focus on research being integral to the course; this prompted this article to examine the use of research in postgraduate and undergraduate programs and evaluate the debate over research methods applicable to the field. This article includes a brief definition of visual communication design, an overview of commonly used methods for visual communication design education such as Action Research and Reflective Practice, as well as an outline of research emphasis in visual communication design at postgraduate level. In addition, this article provides a brief overview on the nature of problem in undergraduate studies, such as lack of appropriate models of research practice in visual communication design education, and also the need for early training in the research discipline for visual communication in undergraduate studies.