Education Roads Less Traveled
Solving America's Fixation on Four-Year Degrees
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Rowman & Littlefield
Published:18th Jan '19
Should be back in stock very soon
This hardback is available in another edition too:
- Paperback£17.99(9781475852998)
Exploring the consequences of America's college bias, Education Roads Less Traveled encourages alternative paths for young people's futures.
In Education Roads Less Traveled, the author delves into the pervasive bias in America towards four-year college education, exploring its origins and consequences. Each year, many young Americans feel compelled to enroll in four-year colleges, often against their true interests. This pressure stems from various sources, including parents, peers, and educators, creating an environment where college attendance seems like the only viable path to success. Unfortunately, this often leads to disillusionment, as many students find that the collegiate experience does not align with their aspirations, resulting in high dropout rates.
The fallout from this trend can be significant, with many individuals facing unemployment or underemployment, compounded by the burden of student debt. This cycle can stifle access to middle-class jobs, causing unnecessary delays and limiting opportunities for young people. However, Education Roads Less Traveled emphasizes that alternative educational and career pathways exist, particularly for those who prefer hands-on work. These routes not only offer fulfilling careers but also contribute positively to the economy.
The book's primary goal is to encourage teenagers to reflect on their career aspirations and consider options beyond traditional college education. By addressing the urgent need to bridge skill gaps, particularly as skilled baby boomers retire, the author highlights the importance of diversifying educational pathways to better serve the needs of the workforce and the economy.
Mitch Pearlstein is correct, a four-year college isn’t for everyone. Every parent who thinks that’s’ true for other people’s kids, but not their own, should read this critically important book. Pearlstein’s data-driven examination shows why current norms and notions that nearly everyone should go to college are recipes for disappointment for millions and serious impediments to economic growth. -- Randy Ahlm, CEO, Imperial Plastics, Inc.
Mitch Pearlstein knows how to make a convincing case. This time it is about why we should expose more young Americans to the many educational opportunities and career pathways that exist outside of the traditional four-year college route. -- Robert Doar, former commissioner for human services in both New York City and New York State
It’s a miracle that such an important book is also such a joy to read. It is the key to improving millions of lives, financially and in terms of self-respect, and to strengthening our country as well. Pearlstein sees a major crisis that has been overlooked for far too long. And he tells us, wisely, how to overcome it. His message is brilliant—and urgent. -- David Lebedoff, author, "The Uncivil War"; founder, SwanStaff, a company helping those without four-year-degrees to achieve highly rewarding careers
Mitch Pearlstein is on to something very important: college education is not for everyone--but everyone should enter adulthood with a skill that can earn them a decent income, and help them support a family. If we are serious about making America into a country of prosperity for all, we need to give a serious listen to what Mitch has to say. -- Nicholas Eberstadt, American Enterprise Institute
Mitch Pearlstein has penned a timely and very useful book about why many now find college to be more obstacle than opportunity. Notably, in an era when many are quick to demonize higher education or rush to its defense, he manages to do neither. Instead, he thoughtfully examines the landscape, suggest practical options, and sketches a promising path forward. -- Frederick Hess, author of Letters to a Young Education Reformer; director of education policy studies at the American Enterprise Institute
ISBN: 9781475847536
Dimensions: 229mm x 161mm x 17mm
Weight: 349g
144 pages