In this course students explore and use research techniques applicable to products and product systems, covering problem identification, data gathering and analysis, and synthesis of information into a brief for future product design endeavours. Project proposals for project research are often aligned with the research interests and activities of the program staff, which include studying the environmental, social, cultural, marketing, engineering, emotional, ergonomic and aesthetic aspects of industrial design. Focus group discussions, expert interviews, surveys, prototype or model testing with users, and a comprehensive literature search constitute major activities in the course, with a strong emphasis on ethical research practices being fostered throughout. The outcomes of IDES4301 will be a Project Research Thesis and may form the basis for IDES4351 Project in the subsequent semester.