The collaborative research sampler plate for informed design and enhanced Body of Knowledge

Abstract

The academic's experience in conducting research adds several layers that inform and enhance design outcomes, and effect result validity and generalizability to future projects. As practitioners' pressure grows to be productive, efficient and creative, their ability to remain abreast of current research decreases. Collaboration with academia can be valuable and necessary in serving the best interests of clients, and there are many pathways for conducting and coordinating design research. Synchronization and mutual respect between design practitioner and academic is critical to both design and research results, and methods should be conferred and formulated in tandem. This paper outlines seven case study methods, offering a sampler of strategies for the researcher or practitioner planning a project. Cases include: Post-occupancy evaluation; Feasibility and resident needs survey; Participatory action-research; Exploratory-descriptive research; Action research; Pretest and post-test methods; and a Meta-analysis for sustainable community planning.