Embrace the concept, forget the word...thoughs on design research

I think the thing that is the "scariest" for designers about design "research" is the term "research." To us creative types research connotes a mathematic, scientific approach to something. It also brings to light the fact that to this point, not many of us have been doing "research" GASP...or have we? The truth, in my case anyway, is yes...and no. Yes, I have been doing SOME research, I just don't think of it as research, and no because I'm not doing enough of it. So far, in this program, it's been my experience that many, if not most of designers feel the same way about this topic. The "oh-shit" reaction to the word "research" is common place. I think this is due to two main factors... 1) the lack of understanding of what design research is and 2) the mass amounts of design training necessary before reaching this hurdle in our professional development. I want to teach design in college someday- hence the MFA program so occasionally I try to think back on design classes that I took as a freshman. Just think, for a minute about all that you have learned, between your undergrad and grad classes thus far. Can you imagine trying to get freshmen, heck, seniors to grapple with the idea of extensive design "research." I think that it's important that this topic is addressed so thoroughly in the MFA program. This single topic has been the largest factor in my growth as a designer while in the program. It's been really interesting to hear what everyone has to say about the topic. Although research may seem to be uncharted territory for many of us, it's actually something that should bring new depth and legitimacy to our work, which in turn, helps us cut the bullshit.