OUGD501 - Setting A Research Question

Based on my Context of Practice 2 proposal submitted in the previous module, it was decided to focus on the use of objectivity and subjectivity within graphic design, particularly focusing on the debate between Wim Crouwel and Jan Van Toorn since this debate was something of interest during first year which I could possibly use to also put my own arguments and beliefs on this topic into practice.

In establishing a research question, there were some points which should be followed:

Focus on a specific graphic design discipline.
- It was thought that the use of grids, layout and typography within graphic design could be one way in which to make the research question and essay more specific, since the debate on objectivity and subjectivity is quite broad (functionality vs. aesthetics).
- Another focus point could also be typography and editorial design (modernism vs. postmodernism).

The question must be open ended.
- Sometimes better to form research question once you have written the essay - let the question be informed by your work.
- Must be contemporary.

The question must allow for suitable theoretical research as well as visual exploration.
- Focusing on a more specific element of graphic design, posed within the research question, should allow for suitable theoretical research in the form of the 1972 debate and how other designers approach design, as well as visual exploration in putting such ideas into practice.

Position your question within contemporary graphic design practice - make it work for you.

Do some quick preliminary research to gauge how much literature is currently available
- Do the same to explore what is currently happening within the industry.
- David Carson, Josef Muller-Brockmann, Jan Van Toorn, Wim Crouwel.

Consider what primary research methods could be used to support your research.
- Explore shops and libraries to see what material is already published on the topic of objectivity and subjectivity, or those which use clear objective or subjective approaches in their design and production.
- Questionnaire to find out why people buy certain graphic design products (function or aesthetics?)
- How much do the ideas of people and demographics play on the design of a piece of work compared to ideas of objectivity and subjectivity?