Charting the Landscape of Design Cognition: Bridging the Gap Between Design Cognition and Cognitive Science

Abstract

This study examines the trajectory of cognitive studies on design processes (DesCog), charting its scientific landscape and interactions with cognitive science (CogSci). First, the study delineates the boundaries of DesCog within all published scholarly works. The analysis indicates that DesCog is a focused field with lesser impact on other fields, showing divergent bibliographic positions and connections for 'design cognition' and 'design thinking'. Second, the longitudinal evolution of DesCog is identified as gradually becoming more diverse and more connected. Third, DesCog's foundational connections to CogSci demonstrate that the relationship is spontaneous rather than following 'generalising interdisciplinarity' aims. The analysis indicates a unidirectional flow from CogSci to DesCog, with occasional reciprocal interactions. The volume and diversity of CogSci literature cited by DesCog appear narrow, and most cited publications are based on the information-processing theory of cognition. Fourth, the study identifies common themes at the intersection of two fields, demonstrating that creativity has been a focal theme for both since earlier studies. Finally, the individual impact of CogSci researchers on DesCog highlights the significance of Simon and Newell's influence. The study contributes to reflections on DesCog's knowledge production, underlining unidirectional knowledge flows from CogSci to DesCog and partial theoretical connections within the field.