I think about two people going through the woods, one on a timed/high-stakes scavenger hunt, the other out exploring (perhaps with some markers along the way to guide). The first might “win” but will lose out on so much. I wish more students had the chance to explore.
Students are constantly feeling rushed. Before they’re able to master a skill or concept, they get assessed and are told to move on. It leads to high anxiety and a low sense of self worth. We need to worry less about “staying on pace” and care more about depth of understanding.