Dear Gio,
Thanks for posting your question to the list.
I agree with Terry's advice that the problem-based type of research would be a useful way forward. A good book that describes this approach is Blessing and Chakrabarti's 'DRM, a Design Research Methodology'. This book mostly draws on examples from engineering design but their systematic procedure for building descriptive and prescriptive studies upon each other is useful for a broad range of design disciplines.
You may also find it useful to consider how the final dissertation you will submit for examination should demonstrate "doctorateness". Vernon Trafford's research is useful for you here. Reflecting on what you have completed so far and asking yourself whether it enables you to demonstrate "doctorateness", might help you to identify what you've got and what you have left to do.
Best wishes,
Luke
Luke Feast, PhD | Postdoctoral Researcher in Design | Department of Design | School of Arts, Design and Architecture | Aalto University | Finland
P.S. Often research is a long and difficult journey, so remaining optimistic about your work is essential.
Blessing, L. T. M., & Chakrabarti, A. (2009). DRM, a design research methodology. Dordrecht; London: Springer.
Trafford, Vernon, and Leshem, Shosh. (2008). Stepping Stones to Achieving Your Doctorate: By Focusing on Your Viva from the Start. Berkshire, GBR: Open University Press
- see chapter 3 for the discussion of "doctorateness".
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