Ep 31: Education is a Wicked Problem, which means it is impossible to solve. We tried anyway.
In 1973, design theorists Horst Rittel and Melvin Webber introduced the term "wicked problem" in order to draw attention to the complexities and challenges of addressing planning and social policy problems.
Education is such a problem.
In this episode, Brian and Kasey work through the complexities of education as a Wicked Problem. They provide potential solutions for both teachers and school leaders on how to not only engage this unique complexity but also how to move towards purposeful and effective solutions.
Wicked Problem Distinctions:
- No clear formula or solution
- No clear ending or stopping point
- It is filled with contradictions
- It is a process of trying to solve the problem while simultaneously engaging in the problem
- The problem can be defined in a variety of ways, impacting the potential solutions
Wicked Problem Solutions:
- Choose pillars of norms, rather than ending solutions, and pursue them
- Invite and collaborate with all stakeholders, of those who will suffer the consequences
- Embrace the iterative process
References:
Tackling Wicked Problems and Catalyzing Creativity
Solving for Pattern, by Wendell Berry
A Psalm of Life, BY HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW
Everything Sad is Untrue, by Daniel Nayeri:
“Does writing poetry make you brave? It is a good question to ask. I think making anything is a brave thing to do. Not like fighting brave, obviously. But a kind that looks at a horrible situation and doesn’t crumble. Making anything assumes there’s a world worth making it for.”
Show Sponsors:
Schurtz and Ties is sponsored by PeerDrivenPD, a teacher training platform that brings "candid conversations from some of the best classroom educators in the country." You can "get your training directly from the teachers in the trenches as current classroom teachers guide your professional learning with authentic insights and practical strategies you can try immediately." Check out PeerDrivenPD.com for more information and mention Schurtz and Ties and get 10% off any purchase for one year!
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Twitter: SchurtzandTies
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Thank you, also, Matt Hard for the outro music (it was generated from our Chat GPT Episode) and Karl DeCock for creating the cover art!
