Design research studies for the new needs : balance in theoretical study and design practice

Abstract

This paper briefly reviews current design research studies. Taking current design research programmes in China as case studies, the paper criticises the programmes as they lack a balance between theoretical study and design practice. The paper identifies the need for change - reform - in design research studies in a country which faces continuous social, economical and industrial changes. It then discusses the advantages, limitations, difficulties, opportunities, and possibilities of having this balance in design research studies. By proposing some directions for the programme implementation and further development, the paper expects to stimulate further investigations and discussions in order to bring a higher quality of design research studies.