ABSTRACT

This chapter explores the RMIT University approach to practice-based design research at doctoral level and in particular the assessment component of the PhD candidates and their practice-embedded research. Design practice research at RMIT began in the late 1980s following Leon van Schaik's recent arrival in Melbourne and his delight and fascination with the architecture and the city. He invited practitioners to join him in examining the nature of their work and, as he called it, their 'mastery' demonstrated through their extensive work acclaimed locally through awards, exhibitions, publications and peer review. RMIT design practice research programme commenced in the early years as a research Master for practitioners and now operates at doctoral level across three continents: Australia, Europe and Asia. RMIT model has been very influential in terms of process, assessment, pedagogy and the role of the academy. What has come out of the RMIT model are interesting concepts that surround the process and the work of the candidates.