Exploring the functions of reflective writing in the design studio: A study from the point of view of students

This longitudinal study is based on the reflective writing activities of students on the Basic Design I course in the Department of Industrial Product Design at Istanbul Technical University (ITU). Besides the cognitive, metacognitive and affective influence of reflective writing on design learning, this study is an attempt to seek answers to how design students respond to reflective writing in design curricula. The structure and content of the reflective writing in this study was inspired by writing-to-learn approaches. We analysed and discussed students’ remarks under common issues, and exemplified diary entries that are related to the act of writing. Based on the findings, the functions of reflective writing in the design studio were specified.