Design Research Dissertation ：Final Compilation
ZHOU YUTONG / 0378676
Design Research Dissertation / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media
Final Compilation
TABLE OF CONTENT
INSTRUCTIONS
TASK
FEEDBACK
REFLECTION
INSTRUCTIONS
TASK 1
DISSERTATION DRAFT
FINAL COMPLETE DISSERTATION
REFLECTION
This Design Research Dissertation process has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences in my Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media. Through the completion of the dissertation draft, visual publication proposal, and final dissertation, I have developed a much deeper understanding of academic research, critical thinking, and the relationship between theory and design practice.
At the beginning of this project, I found academic research intimidating, especially in terms of structuring a clear research problem, reviewing literature critically, and using formal academic language. My research topic, focusing on user immersion through virtual reality (VR) in museums, required me to engage with interdisciplinary sources from design, technology, museum studies, and human–computer interaction. This pushed me to move beyond surface-level reading and learn how to compare viewpoints, identify research gaps, and synthesize ideas rather than simply describe them. Over time, I became more confident in academic reading and learned how to extract key arguments and apply them directly to my research focus.
The dissertation draft stage was particularly valuable because it allowed me to receive feedback and reflect on weaknesses in my argument structure and methodology. I realized that a strong research paper is not only about having an interesting topic, but also about presenting ideas logically and supporting them with credible sources. Revising the draft helped me improve clarity, coherence, and academic tone. I also learned the importance of proper citation and academic integrity, which was reinforced through the Turnitin reports.
The Visual Publication Proposal was another important learning experience. Translating complex academic research into a visual and accessible format challenged my design thinking skills. It required me to consider audience engagement, visual hierarchy, and information design while remaining faithful to the research content. This task helped me understand how research can inform creative outcomes and how design can be used as a tool to communicate knowledge effectively.
Completing the final dissertation gave me a strong sense of achievement. It demonstrated my ability to manage a long-term project independently, balance research and design thinking, and respond to feedback constructively. The tutorial feedback throughout the process was extremely helpful in guiding my direction and encouraging critical self-reflection.
Overall, this dissertation has strengthened my research skills, time management, and academic writing abilities. More importantly, it has shaped my understanding of how design research can contribute meaningful insights to emerging fields such as immersive media and VR. This experience will be highly valuable for my future academic studies and professional practice as a designer.
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