This line of research develops critical research that investigates design and the making of design, taking into account theoretical and historical aspects, and its insertion in social, cultural and economic dynamics. It includes theoretical, experimental and applied research, exploring topics such as scientific paradigms, design thinking, ways of producing knowledge about and for design, design teaching; in conjunction with other areas of knowledge, such as philosophy, history, anthropology and art.

In this line of research, the terms technology, product and innovation help to delimit the broad field of design studies. The research gathered here analyses theoretical and practical contributions to the production of knowledge in both academic and business circles.