NCARB held its fifth annual NCARB Scholars in Professional Practice program from August 10-12, 2023, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Designed to build a community of professional practice educators, the three-day training event included opportunities to network, share best practices, and improve their courses through peer critiques.

During this year’s program, 17 educators from architecture programs across the country gathered at Ball State University’s CAP:INDY center to engage in a mix of presentations and interactive sessions. With content ranging from storytelling and motivation to the future of architectural licensure, this unique professional development program provided educators with the tools and training to enhance the delivery of their course material.

After receiving training from industry experts, educators delivered simulated lessons for peer review and feedback, exploring opportunities to improve both the content and the delivery to best support learning.

Why Professional Practice

Professional practice is an essential part of earning a degree in architecture. Required for accreditation by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), professional practice courses typically address the fundamental principles needed for successful day-to-day practice, including ethics and regulatory requirements. Ensuring that students gain the knowledge needed to practice architecture safely and independently is an essential part of NCARB’s mission to facilitate licensure while protecting the public.

About NCARB Scholars

First held in 2018, NCARB’s annual Scholars in Professional Practice program is an intensive training event that creates a shared foundation for professional practice education. Each year, NCARB receives applications from professional practice educators around the country. Selected Scholars receive full funding from NCARB to attend the event.