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APDesign’s Scott Barton Featured as Facilitator at 2025 NCARB Scholars Program

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Assistant Professor Scott Barton of Kansas State University’s College of Architecture, Planning & Design (APDesign) was selected to serve as a facilitator at the 2025 NCARB Scholars in Professional Practice program, hosted this year at the University of Utah.

The annual program brings together architecture faculty from across the nation to share innovative strategies for teaching professional practice. Barton guided interactive sessions emphasizing authenticity, empathy, and creativity as essential elements in preparing students for licensed practice.

“Change starts when students believe they have the creativity and ability to see a different future,” Barton said. He encouraged educators to focus on:

  • Fostering intrinsic motivation by connecting student work with personal values.

  • Using andragogy—treating students as emerging professionals who bring their own knowledge and experience.

  • Expanding learning beyond the classroom through role-playing, client interactions, and jobsite observations.

  • Harnessing new technologies, including AI, while upholding professional ethics.

  • Integrating storytelling to make complex professional concepts memorable and relatable.

The 2025 Scholars program featured presentations, panel discussions, and collaborative workshops, with Barton helping participants apply new teaching models and develop practical tools for the classroom.

“Scott’s leadership at the NCARB Scholars program reflects APDesign’s national impact in shaping the future of architectural education,” said Dean Michael McClure. “His work reinforces our college’s commitment to preparing students with the professional knowledge and ethical foundation they need for success.”

Through programs like NCARB Scholars, faculty leaders such as Barton are ensuring the next generation of architects is equipped to meet the challenges of practice and advance the profession with creativity and integrity.