Image courtesy of La Sagrada Familia.

DCist’s guide to lectures and discussions in the D.C. area

Monday:
>> The National Building Museum focuses on design tonight with New York architect Deborah Berke from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Berke will discuss her experiences as well as her “notion that architecture is not an end in itself, but a setting that is enhanced by its use.” $20.

>> Fans of Barcelona, Gaudi and curvaceous architecture should head to the Museum of the American Indian tonight at 6:45 p.m. GW art history professor Phillip Jacks will highlight Barcelona’s renewal as well as the stunning Sagrada Familia in Gaudi’s Barcelona. $35.

Wednesday:
>> Today from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., the New America Foundation presents a new Workforce and Family Education program titled The Impact of the Economic Crisis on Children: The 2009 Child Well Being Index, at which “speakers will discuss the state of America’s children, some bright spots and particular areas of concern, as well as steps America can take to help its young people succeed in the face of daunting obstacles.” Free.

>> Tonight at 6:30 p.m., the Spy Museum hosts a timely discussion with Shuja Nawaz, Bruce Riedel, and Ambassador Teresita Schaffer, titled Pakistan Today: The ISI, India, and What the Future Holds. They’ll look at answers to questions such as “How does the history of the ISI— and its partnership with the CIA during the 1980s—affect its actions and worldview?” and “How do the United States and Pakistan look on their partnership in today’s circumstances?” $15.