Why higher education in the United States has lost its way, and how
universities and colleges can focus sharply on their core mission.
For The Real World of College, Wendy Fischman and Howard Gardner
analyzed in-depth interviews with more than 2,000 students, alumni,
faculty, administrators, parents, trustees, and others, which were
conducted at ten institutions ranging from highly selective liberal arts
colleges to less-selective state schools. What they found challenged
characterizations in the media: students are not preoccupied by
political correctness, free speech, or even the cost of college. They
are most concerned about their GPA and their resumes; they see jobs and
earning potential as more important than learning. Many say they face
mental health challenges, fear that they don't belong, and feel a deep
sense of alienation. Given this daily reality for students, has higher
education lost its way? Fischman and Gardner contend that US
universities and colleges must focus sharply on their core educational
mission.
Fischman and Gardner, both recognized authorities on education and
learning, argue that higher education in the United States has lost
sight of its principal reason for existing: not vocational training, not
the provision of campus amenities, but to increase what Fischman and
Gardner call "higher education capital"--to help students think well and
broadly, express themselves clearly, explore new areas, and be open to
possible transformations. Fischman and Gardner offer cogent
recommendations for how every college can become a community of learners
who are open to change as thinkers, citizens, and human beings.
