Contextualising a field of enquiry
This page explains the process of contextualising a field of enquiry — an important step to creating a studio knowledge object.
Contextualising the field of enquiry
The first section of a studio knowledge object is where the field of enquiry is contextualised, and this section serves as an introduction. It outlines the particular field of design practice or inquiry investigated in the studio. The design field needs to be described with enough detail to give a non-expert reader a good understanding of the key issues and approaches that your insights relate to.
The context outlines:
- the context/focus of the design field or studio
- the aims and intent of this field of practice
- the key thinkers, practitioners, methods and approaches.
- the implications of these aspects on your design practice.
Examples
Read the following example paragraphs to observe the structure and language that can be used in a context paragraph.
The studio, Shaping Nature Experiences, is an introduction to the field of interpretive environment design.1Screen reader users, this is the context/focus. This is a rapidly changing field; the complexity and range of techniques and subject areas involved in the process of designing an exhibition make this a dynamic and intriguing discipline.2Screen reader users, this is the aim and intent. Exhibition design, or interpretive environment design, is a multi-disciplinary field that involves the interweaving of many different elements of media and communications3Screen reader users, these are the key thinkers, practitioners, methods and approaches. to provide transformative experiences for visitors2Screen reader users, this is the aims and intent. (Bayer 1961). The field of interpretive environment design is distinguished by three main themes - designing for learning and play, immersion and interactivity.3Screen reader users, these are the key thinkers, practitioners, methods and approaches. As a designer, and potentially as a future art director, I am conscious that memorable, effective and impactful interpretive environments can offer experiences that engage and enrich visitors' lives, and are a means of changing their perception of the world.4Screen reader users, these are the implications.
This studio, Design for social change: climate change and food security, looks at the social role and ethical practices of communication design.1Screen reader users, this is the context/focus. Social change is a major influence on professional communication design as design can help to connect people to global issues which appear incredibly complex. This design field is human-centred; it requires in-depth research on people and issues that affect them, as well as the people who can help.2Screen reader users, this is the aim and intent. Mapping, creating archetype categories, observing case studies and the six spheres tool help designers to form strategies that are realistic and empathetic. Finally, the presentation from Studio Thick encompassed everything we’ve learnt in this studio and how these skills are implemented in the industry today.3Screen reader users, these are the key thinkers, practitioners, methods and approaches. All of this helped me develop a deeper, personal understanding of the strategy which I felt was conveyed in my final presentation. My new understanding of socially responsible and sustainable service design will be used in my future practice.4Screen reader users, these are the implications.
