Education
Architects In Schools Program

The "Architects in Schools" program was created to encourage greater awareness, understanding and appreciation of Architecture and our built environment.

As a teacher, the program helps you make connections with architects in your own community who can assist you in developing lesson plans and learning activities that will introduce your students to important ideas and concepts through Architecture. It is offered as a community service by members of AIA Wisconsin, the state society of The American Institute of Architects.

Discovering Architecture In Many Places!

Architecture often is described as a combination of Art and Science; so it's a natural component for these two subjects. Architecture also can be used effectively as part of the curriculum for other subjects, such as History, Social Studies, Language Arts and Math.

The following are a few examples:

History/Social Studies Development of architectural styles Growth of a community Influence of culture Influence of geography Math Proportions of architecture Geometric shapes Scale and units of measure Visual Arts Texture Patterns Cultural qualities Color Styles Aesthetic perception

Science Structures, spans, loads and foundations Natural and artificial lighting Color applications Thermal gain and loss Application of technology in buildings Ergonomics and the design of work stations and furniture Traffic flows in and around buildings Language Arts Narratives about how certain buildings, rooms or spaces affect you Descriptions of specific buildings, what they look like and how they are used Development of a new vocabulary So, do you think you have what it takes to be an architect? Visit ArchCareers.org and explore more!

K-12 Opportunities to Learn about Architecture

The Architects in Schools Committee has gathered a few tools to help teachers and architects begin the discussion about Community design and architecture. Click here

Planning for a Career in Architecture

AIA Wisconsin members are available for “Career Days” and other programs. AIA Wisconsin has handout materials for students who may be interested in becoming architects. For example, Careers in Architecture highlights career options and outlines education, experience and examination requirements. In addition, a PowerPoint presentation on “A Student’s Pathway to Architecture” reviews the steps involved in becoming an architect. More info

Architects in Schools . . . in the newspaper!  Sauk Prairie (7-09)  Sun Prairie (4-09)  Waunakee (6-09)

HS Design Your School Competition!

Participate in the Architects in Schools “Design Your School” High School Design Competition for Wisconsin students in grades 9-12! This program is offerred in the Spring of odd numbered years (e.g. 2009, 2011 , , , next in 2013).

Sponsored by the Wisconsin Architects Foundation, The project involves the design of an environmentally sustainable school. The type of school and its location will be determined by each student team based on the needs of their community. The project can involve the design of a new building or the renovation and recycling of an existing building anywhere in their community.

Back to Education Main