Action research concerning technology for design and associated pedagogy

This article begins by discussing action research as a designerly mode of enquiry. The issues and difficulties associated with such a research strategy are highlighted through a discussion of the characteristics of 'wicked problems' as proposed by Rittel & Webber (1974). The essential outcomes of such research - a textbook for A/AS-level design and technology, and teaching and learning strategies for industrial design and technology undergraduates might not be regarded as conventional research outputs, but the arguments presented show that such a viewpoint would be mistaken. Some characteristics of action research as a beneficial mode of enquiry for academics in higher education are noted.