Self-Directed Education
Resource Directory

ODYSSEY: A Self-Directed Learning Community

SDE Optimizing Conditions

1. Responsibility – We give ownership of the learning process to our members, we allow them a voice to create the culture and the responsibility to act according to community expectations, asking them if support is needed.
2. Youth Autonomy – Members are free to pursue their own interests throughout the day with minimum adult supervision/interference, we offer occasional reminders of scheduled activities so members can choose to participate if they desire.
3. Access to Tools and Technology – We have resources from building tools, to sewing, to number games, full kitchen, technology tools, writing workshops, art, gardening, a lending library, and half an acre to run around and explore... plus a 7 minute walk to the Guadalupe river
4. Adult Allies – We offer support in our community via adults and/or peers, and ask if support is needed, rather than assuming need. Parents are welcome to attend on occasion as well as other caring adults in the community.
5. Free Age Mixing – complete age mixing, 5-18 years + adults in the environment.
6. Community – 2 weekly meetings occur: 1) culture meeting wherein each member has a voice in problem solving and addressing social/practical concerns 2) a meeting where members decide what structured activities (if any) they would like to include on the schedule.

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