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Great question Kyle. Some institutions seem to prepare students quite well to engage in real world architectural problem solving; others seem to focus on an ethereal plateau so far removed from the messiness of how our built environment gets shaped that the result may most favor further academic discussion or alternative careers.
Architects serving as trusted advisor to those who shape the built environment must have foundational knowledge of costs, codes, construction materials, building systems, history, and other such 'mundane' basics. These 'basics' are at the heart of licensure: protection of the public from harm. In my mind, these basics are the essential 'turf' of the profession, and they can't be avoided or delegated. Design style is important of course - but it can't in reality be properly considered in isolation for structures and spaces used by people. In the end, a single licensed Architect signs and seals a set of construction plans, and that act carries with it huge responsibilities. To me, accepting those responsibilities is a key to what it means to be an architect; and I would hope this would be the core of educational programs that are directed toward architecture as a profession. Design, considered broadly, is another endeavor. An education in architecture may well prepare someone for a wide range of design roles; but a design education does not prepare one to bear the responsibilities of an architect. My 2 cents. ------------------------------------------- Michael Malinowski AIA AIA Director - California Region Applied Architecture, Inc. Sacramento CA -------------------------------------------
Show Original Message
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Original Message:
Sent: 04-19-2012 10:40
From: Kyle McAdams
Subject: Repositioning: Does Architectural education prepare students to succeed in the real world?
Just another question that might impact or be impacted by the Repositioning of Architects:
Does our architectural education prepare us to succeed in the real world design and construction industry? What about other industries?
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Kyle McAdams AIA
Managing Director, Marketing and Business Development
The American Institute of Architects
Washington DC
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