CCGL9076 Material Matters
Fall 2025/26
ASSIGNMENT 4: MATERIAL INQUIRY
I. Objective
Throughout the progression of human civilizations, numerous materials have either become obsolete or surplus, while others have continued to grow in value and utility to fulfill the constantly evolving demands of humankind. From the humble grains of sand composing our cities’ concrete streets to the complex fibers of synthetic polymers used to package goods globally for distribution and trade, materials and the distinct utilities they offer have indubitably shaped the course of human activity and world building. However, as our capabilities expand, so do our needs and challenges, presenting humanity with continuous opportunities for innovation and problem-solving in material production, distribution, and incorporation. Regardless of our level of advancement, we consistently strive to answer the question: how can this be improved?
In this last course assignment, students will select a material-related topic based on the readings, research, and discussions they have engaged in throughout the term to investigate and develop it in depth through a design-research proposal. They will examine a salient issue surrounding a particular material, process, or material condition to research and expose underlying (including but not limited to) historical, economic, cultural, or governmental frictions. Students will analyze and critique the issues through the lens of sustainable development and propose a method of design-research on the topic they choose to promote. Students will showcase their proposals through a concise 2-minute elevator pitch, aiming to convince the teaching team, invited guests, and fellow students of the significance of their material issue and the merit of their research proposal.
II. Methodology
Research and Review
Students are encouraged to pursue a material-based topic based on their own personal and professional interests. Their project should be fundamentally grounded in the readings, lectures, field-trips, and activities accomplished over the course of the semester, but students are encouraged to reference other relevant sources for their investigations as well. To support the research that students wish to pursue, the teaching team has prepared a variety of databases and books that will be available for students to refer to. For the submission of their design-research proposal, students are expected to compile a multimedia literature review of at least 8-10 sources, with at least 4 originating from academic sources. Topics should target one material, exploring it thoroughly under one of the following aspects:
- Eco-friendly Materials
- Technology and Material Innovation
- Material Labor and Extraction
- Design and Construction
- Vernacular Design and Cultural Practice
Design-Research Proposal
The goal of the design-research proposal is to demonstrate lucid understanding and innovative problem-solving of the subject through an explanation and critique of current underlying conflicts. Students will show their developed expertise on the subject through the literature review. A literature review of superior quality will not merely reiterate what they learn from their sources, but rather interpret the significance of what they research as it pertains to their proposal subject. Students will then argue for their potential solutions and methods through a proposal of research design. These ideas must be supported by academic evidence, appendixes/diagrams/and drawings which the students create or cite.
Presentation
Students present their final proposals in a 2-minute elevator pitch. To ensure a successful presentation that persuades the invited audience, it is vital for students to carefully consider their presentation flow and overall performance. Effectively communicating the proposal requires a well-structured presentation with logically organized content. A strong research prrsentation will be clearly divided into the following elements:
- Title
- Aim
- Learnings/Literature Review
- Methods
- Appendix/Supplementary Diagrams
Students may choose to incorporate multimedia elements (such as images, videos, and charts) to support their points. It is also important for students to manage soft skills, such as time management and body language, during the presentation.
III. Deliverables
- Multimedia literature review of at least 8-10 sources, 4 of which are academic-based texts*
- In-class presentation to teaching team, guest reviewers, and peers (2 minutes)
* To ensure academic integrity, all sources must be properly cited according to academic standards and be clearly traceable. The use of fabricated or inaccurate resources will result in a failing grade for this assignment.