by Todd Pheifer

Created on: February 27, 2008

When Harvard was founded in 1636, the intent was not exactly to educate the masses. Rather, the purpose was to perpetuate the educated class. Over a few hundred years, colleges have diversified in terms of their student body. However, it wasn't until after World War II that the G.I. Bill gave college access to so much of the population. Today's college landscape is a vast web of community, state, private, and research institutions. Some suggest that scholastic quality has decreased over time due to expanded admissions policies. Others applaud the opening up of college enrollment as a sign that we are moving towards a greater educational equality in our society. Here are some additional thoughts on whether college education should be available to the many or reserved for the few.

EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS?

It is clear that a wide variety of people now have access to higher education. At the same time, many schools are experiencing extremely high dropout rates. Some argue that struggling students need more support and greater flexibility in terms of learning styles. Others argue that making college available to everyone does not mean that standards should be relaxed. Regardless of reason for the current state of education, it seems unlikely that schools would start to restrict their enrollment after all this time.

WHAT DOES AVAILABLE MEAN?

Overall, education should be available to as many people as possible. People in general society should have the opportunity to better themselves and education is a key path towards personal improvement. Still, making something available does not guarantee success. People need to differentiate between having an option, and assuming that they will be successful with that option.

We do live in a society where education is "available" for just about everyone. However, we should still strive for academic excellence at educational institutions rather than lowering standards to account for people that are not equipped for high education. Everyone has the right to attempt an education, but they must still earn their degree.

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