ABSTRACT
Acknowledging that there is a culture in architectural education is the first step in noticing and naming that culture has the power to elevate or diminish our students and faculty. Based on research done for the supplement to the AIA Guide for Equitable Practice on Equity in Architectural Education, the author examines established traditions in light of goals to expand access to a wider range of student and faculty voices and perspectives. Questioning culturally-based assumptions about student investment of time and energy in design studio classes, scenarios illuminate the power of centering equity in everyday teaching practices. The ability to navigate culturally based differences has direct application to working effectively across disparate disciplines. Centering equity in the culture of architectural education results in a deep and authentic collaboration that spans across disciplines and creates bridges between the academy and the community.
