Noodles In the Sandbox - Episode 106 - Structure

Noodles in the Sandbox

In today’s episode, we unpack a common misconception about learner-driven environments: that they’re actually just a chaotic free-for-all. For those of us who crave order (even when we know intellectually that it’s not productive!), the thought of kids managing themselves can trigger a “Lord of the Flies” alarm. But here’s the truth: structure is alive and well in these spaces, just in a different, dynamic way. We dive into how structure, flexibility, and freedom all coexist to empower young people to navigate choices, resolve conflicts, and hold each other accountable. Join us as we explore this balanced approach to learning—and why it’s nothing like traditional “top-down” order but also far from “Lord of the Flies”....at least most days…welcome to the party.

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