Discovery in DHA focuses on contributions to society through four modes:

+ improving the human experience,
+ addressing social issues,
+ improving environmental conditions, and
+ advancing our disciplines.

Improving the human experience includes inquiry of the design process and production, aesthetics, human factors and behavior, and product development. Social issues address public policy, economics and multiculturalism. Understanding the interactions of individuals and their environments is studied through examining indoor contaminants and the use of apparel for health protection. We also advance our disciplines through projects focused on the history of designed artifacts, the scholarship of teaching, and theory development and research methods. 

Many current and evolving projects embrace multiple themes, enhancing our discovery efforts, and projects frequently involve faculty from the various disciplines within DHA and across the University.