Design Research Dissertation
Chan Zhi-Ren Zenndan / 0369069
Design Research Dissertation / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media / Taylor's UniversityCompilation
1. Instructions
2. Task 1: Dissertation Draft
3. Task 2: Final Dissertation Turnitin Report
4. Task 3: Flipbook
5. Task 4:
6. Weekly Feedback
7. Reflection
This module has been one of the most challenging and time-consuming parts of my degree so far. Unlike other design modules, it was not visually driven and required sustained focus on writing, critical thinking, and independent time management. The continuous workload made it difficult to keep up alongside other modules, particularly as the semester progressed and multiple submissions overlapped.
Before this module, my approach to design was largely instinctive and visually led. I was more comfortable making decisions through observation and intuition rather than having to justify them through academic research and structured writing. One of the biggest challenges I faced was locating relevant literature and understanding how to use it meaningfully rather than descriptively. Writing the analysis and discussion sections was especially difficult, as it required interpreting findings, connecting them to existing research, and being careful not to overstate claims or rely on personal opinion.
The middle of the semester was the most difficult period for me. With several deadlines happening at the same time, I struggled to balance this module alongside others and often felt overwhelmed by the volume and intensity of the work. At times, this tested my limits as both a researcher and a writer, particularly when progress felt slow despite sustained effort and repeated revisions.
As the semester progressed, I developed a clearer understanding of what critical discussion actually involves. I learned that strong arguments are built through evidence rather than instinct, and that acknowledging the limitations of a study is a necessary part of academic writing rather than a weakness. The precise and direct feedback provided throughout the module helped me recognise gaps in my reasoning, challenge weak assumptions, and refine how I presented and supported my arguments. This feedback played a significant role in improving the clarity and structure of my later drafts.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this module was being able to research a topic I was genuinely interested in. My investigation into serif and sans-serif uniformity began as a casual observation shared with friends, but the research process allowed me to examine this pattern in depth and understand it within a wider academic and industry context. Being able to explore something I was genuinely curious about made the process more meaningful and reinforced the value of research in strengthening design ideas.
Although I feel mentally drained at the end of this module, I am also proud of what I have produced. Completing this dissertation has shown me that I am capable of sustained academic work outside my comfort zone. Overall, this module has shifted how I approach design, making my process more critical, reflective, and grounded in research-informed decision making.
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