Research in an Undergraduate Interior Design Curriculum

Abstract

Research is an important component of the design process and should be incorporated into undergraduate interior design curricula. As potential designers, students need to become cognizant of the necessity of systematically seeking information for design solutions and to increase their awareness of the behavioral impact of design through observation. This article describes an undergraduate research experience which focused upon the development of a team research project using a simulated environment as the research laboratory. Because of the success of this project it became the nucleus of a required research course for interior design majors in which students work with a variety of research methods and projects. The goals of the course are to develop an understanding of the relationship between research and the practice of interior design; to develop research skills; to design, develop and implement research projects utilizing primary sources; and to become acquainted with the body of research applicable to interior design. The ultimate goal for incorporation of research methodologies at the undergraduate level is to establish a respect and understanding for research that students will carry into their professional activities.