This thesis focuses on the use of relational techniques in Communication Design classrooms. Little research exists on using Relational Pedagogy in the Communication Design classroom. This project investigates the context and use of the techniques. Survey data informed the making of the relational technique cards. Instructors and students provided feedback for the technique cards.

There is a lack of existing material on relational learning techniques within design, specifically within the Communication Design classroom.

1. Identify the techniques used in the design classroom.
2. Categorize techniques using thematic codes.
3. Design and evaluate a visual for presenting information.

My initial goal was to reach out to 34 schools (shown in the table below). I was curious how student to instructor ratio, public vs private, 2 vs 4-year program and instructor experience level played a role in relational learning.

After conducted a survey I heard back from 17 schools. The map below lists the schools represented and their classification.

40 Instructors from 17 schools and 52 students from UC DAAP participated. Their written responses were coded based on techniques used, resulting in 5 thematic codes.

With 141 unique tags in initial coding, it was crucial to recategorize into a smaller number of overall themes. 
The five codes below represent these themes.

Relational techniques are present in Communication Design. Instructors do not oppose Relational Pedagogy. Opportunities exist to better inform Communication Design instructors about what it is and how it influences their teaching practices. Relational Technique Cards are a potential solution because they explain how Relational Pedagogy can be intentionally used in the Communication Design classroom. Ultimately assisting design instructors grow as teachers.

This was one of the hardest projects I've worked on. While my goal for my graduate thesis was to have a grandiose project. I am happy with what I created.

Looking back on the years that were, I am amazed at the sheer volume of work that was put into this project. While the formal deliverables were a thesis paper, a DAAPworks poster, and a thesis defense presentation, countless aspects of this project won't see the light of day.

Sifting through all of the aspects of this project taught me a lot in itself. Being able to sit with and work through large amounts of information was a challenge, but an immensely valuable task. I am eager to see how this work can be used to propel myself further in my career, both as a designer/researcher and ultimately as an educator.

Problems that I ran into...
1. Working on a graduate thesis brought lots of emotions throughout the process.
2. Wanting to do super involved research in a short amount of time
3. Many, MANY more...

How I pivoted...
1. While not necessarily a pivot, I found peace in my friends, family, and journaling. All of these avenues helped calm me during the chaos that was graduate school.
2. While I wasn't able to do the exact methodologies I set out for, I was able to leverage the methods I did choose to make a project I was proud of.
3. Leaning on my amazing thesis committee and my peers helped me work through road bumps throughout the process. I came out of this realizing that a graduate thesis will never be a flawless process. The problems that arose made me a better researcher, as I had to learn to pivot to many different problems throughout the 2 years.

Shown below is my DAAPworks poster. DAAPworks is an annual show held by the University of Cincinnati's College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning. This showcase highlights the capstone work by the graduating class for that given year.

My poster was chosen to be the recipient of the Directors' Choice Award for my program (Master of Design)