Reference and Citation in Design Research

Dear All,

David, Ranulph, and Chris stated my views well in their replies to 
Rob's note. Referencing and citation serve the goals stated in their 
three notes. Reference and citation is a research skill that involves 
far more than history. These are analytical and critical tools. I may 
add a few short thoughts on this in a day or so.

For now, I will be happy to send the document that occasioned Rob's 
comments to anyone who wishes it. This is a paper I prepared for 
teaching a workshop on research writing when Joao Lutz and his 
colleagues invited me to Rio de Janerio last October. (Abstract 
below.)

If you'd like a copy in PDF format, please send a note to me at

<ken.friedman@xxxxx>

Place the word "Reference" in the subject header

Subject: Reference

You'll have a copy by return post.

Warm wishes,

Ken



Friedman, Ken. 2005. Reference and Citation in Design Research. 
Research Writing Workshop. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Third 
International Conference on Design Research

Abstract

Good referencing is central to the growing literature of design 
research for four main reasons: reasoned argument, access to common 
evidence, building the field, and improving the intellectual and 
practical quality of the discipline.

This article outlines the foundations of referencing and citation. It 
clarifies central issues in referencing and citation. It discusses 
literature review as an exercise linked to good referencing and it 
offers resources and tools for design research.

Most important, it discusses the role of evidence in analyzing and 
solving problems in design research. While some design problems 
involve taste and interpretation, most design arguments rest on 
statements of fact. Statements of fact have truth-value established 
by evidence. References make evidence accessible distinct from the 
person and claims of the writer. By providing evidence for reasoned 
argument, good referencing and citation serves both the field of 
design practice and the discipline of design research.

A challenge to the value of referencing and citations is sometimes 
heard in design research circles. This challenge questions the value 
of good referencing and citations to research and practice in design. 
This article will address the misunderstandings that give rise to 
these challenges.