2007 NCARB Practice Analysis: Shaping the Future of ARE® and IDP
Now Available Online
Washington, DC—The 2007 Practice Analysis of Architecture is now available to download from the National
Council of Architectural Registration Boards’ (NCARB) web site. The 2007 survey and analysis represent the
greatest outreach and response from architects ever received. The results will be used to shape the foundation of an
architect’s entry into the profession: the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), and, for the first time, the
Intern Development Program (IDP).
The purpose of the study was to identify the tasks and knowledge/skills that are important for recently licensed
architects, practicing independently, to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Nearly 200 tasks and
knowledge/skills identified in the survey were verified as important and will be utilized in the future development
of the IDP and the ARE.
The study will serve as the primary basis for updating the ARE, much in the same way the 2001 Practice Analysis
results influenced the content and organization of ARE 3.0, ARE 3.1, and the soon-to-be released ARE 4.0.
For the first time, the findings will be used for strengthening the IDP. The results will guide the most significant
update of IDP since its inception over 25 years ago. A well-conducted practice analysis provides this important
foundation and establishes a strong valid framework for the content of an internship program.
Over 50,000 architects from across the United States and Canada were invited to participate electronically and a
record 9,835 practicing architects completed the survey. In comparison, the 2001 survey was delivered by U.S.
mail in written format to 4,600 architects, interns, and educators with only 1,656 responses received. While the
2001 survey response rate was significant, the latest study represents the most comprehensive response to a practice
analysis ever conducted by the Council. The findings in part serve as the voice of architects in shaping the future
of the IDP and the ARE.
The survey was also used to understand the “point-of acquisition” for each knowledge/skill. Respondents indicated
if the knowledge/skill was acquired by completion of a professional degree, during internship, or after licensure.
The survey identified which knowledge/skills need more exposure during education and internship.
NCARB committees and task forces are thoroughly examining the results to determine how best to incorporate the
survey’s findings and recommendations.
The Practice Analysis was more than just a survey. It involved a multi-method approach that included meetings
with subject-matter experts, an extensive online survey, and detailed analysis of the results. NCARB’s test development
and psychometric consultant, Prometric, administered the process and analysis according to the guidelines of The Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing.
To download and read the 2007 Practice Analysis of Architecture, click here.
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