Why are schools so busy? episode artwork

EPISODE · Nov 12, 2025 · 37 MIN

Why are schools so busy?

from Yard Duty: The Art and Science of Modern Schooling · host Will Hanley and Michael Noonan

In today's episode we return to the topic of complexity in schools. Michael argues that in schools, the way we understand and try to solve problems is often at odds with the right approach. This leads to wasted effort, solving the wrong problems and more complication in schools. He claims that this is why schools are busy all the time. We discuss an alternative approach schools can take. The Cynefin framework, developed by Dave Snowden helps you identify and work with the various problems, situations and systems in a complex system like a school.Will's not convinced. Will Michael bring him around to his way of thinking? To get a good understanding of the Cynefin Framework, see: https://untools.co/cynefin-framework/

In today's episode we return to the topic of complexity in schools. Michael argues that in schools, the way we understand and try to solve problems is often at odds with the right approach. This leads to wasted effort, solving the wrong problems and more complication in schools. He claims that this is why schools are busy all the time. We discuss an alternative approach schools can take. The Cynefin framework, developed by Dave Snowden helps you identify and work with the various problems, situations and systems in a complex system like a school.Will's not convinced. Will Michael bring him around to his way of thinking? To get a good understanding of the Cynefin Framework, see: https://untools.co/cynefin-framework/

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Why are schools so busy?

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This episode is 37 minutes long.

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This episode was published on November 12, 2025.

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In today's episode we return to the topic of complexity in schools. Michael argues that in schools, the way we understand and try to solve problems is often at odds with the right approach. This leads to wasted effort, solving the wrong problems and...

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