In Comparison to the World, is it too late for Reform?

Hi Everyone,

It is imperative that we understand that if education is not embedded in our culture, it will soon lose its value. Are we a nation that wants education? Yes. Is it quality education? Sometimes. Are we headed in the right direction? No. Is it because of Math and Science? No.

As a country, the United States of America has had various standards, policies,etc, but they have been quite ineffective. I was a great performer but I was by no means as smart as my Valedictorian award stated. College really provides two things: an opportunity to learn more and a true assessment of how much you know and what you have memorized. I remembered my content well, but application was another story. Critical thinking skills were just below average in comparison to other students.

We must first make sure the educators, not teachers ( there is a difference) are producing effective instruction. This effective instruction can be based on the foundation of the appreciation that the educator has for his/her position. It is not a paycheck. It is a career that affects lives beyond sight. Beyond interpretation even. We are allowing anyone to become a teacher, instructor, etc. It takes a strong, educated, and dedicated individual to be an educator, no matter the grade level.

Ease of access. We are not as selective as we used to be. There was a reason only a certain amount of individuals had degrees. It separated the scholar from the learner. For-profit institutions have changed that. Why would a for-profit institution have the same respect as a good brick and mortar school? They should have limited funding, roughly 35%. Anyone who wants to go to their school should have to pay out of pocket or have private loans because it places them in charge of their education. This will reduce diploma mills, planned failed dissertations, etc. CLOSE THE LOOPHOLE.

Are we too late. Almost. Too many students have online degrees now so what will happen to them if they became "null and void?" We would have displaced many individuals who thought they were getting the right thing. Maybe the non-profit schools should be responsible for repaying the government at least 10% of the tuition "lost" if their students fail to earn their degree as a tax. I do not know. All I know is there are too many new for-profit institutions that are waiting in line for the hand out.

We must place new standards on educators, challenge students, and produce quality curricula in order to compete globally. Education is the birth of all professions. If we have an unsatisfactory rating for education, the impact of the professions will be even greater. Thanks.

Mary J

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