Some Thoughts on Universities....

In the States, President Obama has called for stronger growth and results in Education; probably a smarter way of directing "The No Child Left Behind" philosophy, President Obama views education as a national investment in the future of Americans and, as such, endorses diverse ways of making sure students graduate from high school. An example of a junior college philosophy that is working is illustrated in this article from the Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/08/education/08school.html?pagewanted=1&hp

The general idea is that families from at-risk neighbourhoods, particularly those with parents without college backgrounds, are encouraged to send their children to college earlier. The kids are streamed from grade 9 towards early college admittance and, basically, get a head start on their college diplomas and future degrees. It is an education program funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation--so participants are not charged for their participation.

Now, this American initiative must be contrasted with the current English philosophy. From the Guardian:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2010/feb/07/job-losses-universities-cuts

Government-funded universities are being closed, staff reduced and tuition hiked in a governmental effort to save money. Some universities are being kept open to teach science and math courses but degrees in the humanities are no longer being offered. And, this is being done while England is in recession and the youth are unemployed and, potentially, unemployable because of their lack of skills. One could make the argument England is not investing in its future. So,in ten years, which country will have achieved the better future?

Children who are not encouraged by their parents do not do well; the junior college program is small and academic and children are streamed from grade 8. Thus, the parents must be actively involved with their child's education and be ambitious for the kids. It makes sense for it to succeed. The closure of universities in England will mean 300 000 students will not have the options to get a degree. But does that mean these people do not have futures? If one is reliant solely on a degree, England is in trouble; but, where did Bill Gates do his university studies and when did he achieve his degree? Kind of ironic, don't you think?