Strategies for Enhancing American Universities
Commentary
What actions can stakeholders take to enhance universities in California and elsewhere—both private and public?
The DOE contributes only a small fraction of public education funding, and much of its influence is ideologically motivated rather than based on solid academic principles. A focus on phonics for reading instruction should have been prioritized but was largely overlooked. Since its establishment in 1980, the DOE has been complicit in subpar educational outcomes for students.
Some argue that state education departments are also superfluous, given that the majority of public education funding comes from various local taxes. Education was historically managed by local communities and parents; however, government involvement has increased excessively, often failing to meet the diverse needs of local school systems. While district and state assessments are vital, student evaluations can also include projects, portfolios, and writing samples.
State education departments should consider removing redundant regulations to promote rigorous core subjects and trade courses, thus minimizing the need for remedial college courses. Additionally, every state should embrace competition in the growth of charter and private schools, as well as opportunities for school choice.
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Additionally, the university student loan program could be managed by banks and credit unions rather than by remote government entities that operate unlike businesses. When students can access loans from local sources, they may feel more responsible for repaying them after graduation.
Many students struggle to keep up with loan repayments, and any delinquent borrowers should be held accountable to prevent taxpayers from bearing the financial burden. Loan forgiveness should not be an option, as character is developed through committing to responsible repayment.
Furthermore, it is crucial to eliminate divisive identity politics that have permeated educational institutions at all levels, fostering groupthink instead of independent thought. It is essential to restore a tradition of fair competition, which ensures equal opportunity for all students. Admission criteria should be uniformly applied to all applicants to maintain graduation standards. America’s foundation is built on meritocracy, not favoritism toward specific minority groups or enforced equality of predetermined outcomes. While valuing diversity is important, it must also include personal responsibility and equal rights.
Moreover, higher education currently has an overabundance of administrators and a shortage of professors and students. This misbalance can escalate the cost of education for students. By the time students enter college, they should no longer require excessive support from unnecessary programs. They ought to cultivate independent thinking and curiosity, alongside acquiring practical experience through internships to prepare them for independence.
Students should also be encouraged to work part-time (either on or off campus) during the school year and full-time in the summer to gain valuable experience that aids in their career decisions. Balancing academic responsibilities with productive work and volunteering can foster character development and help students avoid mischief throughout their educational journey. Challenging work prepares them for a smooth transition into professional environments.
The academic curriculum needs to restore its rigor across all disciplines, not only in STEM fields. The arts, humanities, and social sciences must also emphasize critical thinking and refrain from promoting ideologies that cultivate conformity. It is essential to address grade inflation and the practice of social promotion. Students should be challenged to explore significant ideas from history that have the potential to shape the future and remain open to perspectives that differ from their own.
Finally, implementing civics courses for university students may be beneficial, as many states currently fail to teach civics in public education. Such courses could expose students to the comprehensive history of American progress, comparative history, and timeless literary works. Engaging with civics can foster responsible and informed citizenship.
Encouraging reduced reliance on technology devices can help students focus on reading books and journals and conducting genuine research. They should also reflect on their readings and articulate their thoughts coherently through various writing styles based on their in-depth comprehension. Informal reading beyond assigned texts is encouraged as long as it enhances reading and writing skills.
Lastly, promoting the value of lifelong learning is essential. Both formal and informal education play a key role in nurturing a love for knowledge and wisdom throughout one’s life. This ongoing pursuit of learning can lead to broader career options and a wider range of interests that benefit society as a whole.
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
