Taliesin, The Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture

The Taliesin education provides the foundations for creative, cooperative, independent persons in architecture through active experiential learning. The School has pioneered experiential learning in architecture since 1932 and remains dedicated to the principle of "Learning by Doing" which is interdisciplinary in nature. The relationship between resources, various ways of learning and knowledge-based outcomes characterize the curriculum.

The learner (called the Apprentice) is an active participant in the design of the pathway through the program, draws on a variety of resources, uses specific tools and methods to search for and absorb knowledge. In the process the learner develops ability to use what he or she learns, self-assesses and grows personally.

Architecture, the Arts, and experiencing community form the core of the Taliesin experience. Apprentices explore Architecture through the resources of design, technical and professional practices, and Liberal Studies while simultaneously developing the General Competencies throughout the learning process.

The program is noncompetitive; traditional grading is replaced by assessment of the apprentice's content of learning by faculty, mentors, and practicing architects on the basis of evidence through Portfolio documentation. The educational progress culminates with the learner's developed ability to use and share his/her knowledge and inspiration as well as the ability to seek further knowledge and refinement as needed in the course of a professional creative life. The apprentice's individual design work ultimately evokes the synthesis of his/her learning.

While basic expectations remain the same for all, the learning program at Taliesin supports creative spontaneity and encourages experimentation by allowing each apprentice, with the guidance and concurrence of academic advisors and review committees, to individualize the content and synthesis of the learning experience. This approach produces integrated abilities while it maximizes each learner's potential.