Reassessing Values in Postsecondary Education. AICS Special Report.

Overview & Synopsis

Data compiled from previously published reports are used to assess values in postsecondary education. Five criteria are discussed: (1) postsecondary education should improve the graduates' work opportunities; (2) postsecondary education should have effective holding power; (3) postsecondary education should be relevant to students' needs; (4) postsecondary education should be cost-effective for students and the society financing it; and (5) postsecondary educational institutions should be accountable. Comparisons are made between colleges (public and private two- and four-year degree-granting institutions) and alternative institutions (public, private, and proprietary trade and vocational schools). A 33-item bibliography is included. (LBH)