Modern education often promises clarity, efficiency, and measurable results. But what if those very strengths are quietly reshaping what we believe education is for?

In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Joshua Pauling to explore the subtle but powerful influence of what he calls the “tyranny of technique.” When systems, metrics, and methods take center stage, students can easily become outputs to manage rather than persons to form.

Josh brings a thoughtful perspective shaped by years in public education, classical education, and his work launching a new hybrid classical school. Together, they reflect on how common educational practices can unintentionally erode relationships, diminish wonder, and narrow our vision of formation.

But this conversation is not merely critical - it is deeply constructive.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

What Joshua Pauling means by the “tyranny of technique” and how it shows up in modern education
How efficiency, grading systems, and metrics can subtly redefine what success looks like
Why relationships, trust, and contemplation are essential to true learning
The role of narration, oral assessment, and embodied practices in forming students
What it looks like to resist a purely mechanistic model of schooling
How Josh’s hybrid classical school is pursuing a more humane and restful vision of education
Practical encouragement for parents and educators seeking to prioritize formation over performance

This episode is an invitation to step back and reconsider our assumptions. For parents, educators, and school leaders alike, it offers a compelling reminder: education is not primarily about producing results, but about raising human beings.

Show Notes:

Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:

Wisdom and Eloquence
The Herzog Foundation
The Champion Group
Life Architects
Wisephone by Techless
ZipCast
Wilson Hill Academy

Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.com

Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.