Most US students not literate enough for complex tasks

Daily Times ^ | 1/21/06 | AP

[Clintonfatigued]

The public school system has never been good, but in the past homeschooling wasn't a feasible option. That's far from being the case now.

[MoochPooch]

From my own observations I concur. I think a college degree today is indicative of less acquisition of knowledge than a high school diploma 20 years ago.

I work at a college library, so I get to see firsthand the students' assigned readings. (I order the books for the courses.)

The literature they read in class (i.e. HUCKLEBERRY FINN, ANIMAL FARM, HAMLET) I had to read in high school. It made me wonder if some of these courses were remedial in nature. The papers they write look like something the average (not particularly gifted) ninth-grader 30 years ago would have written.

So yes, there is a dreadful decline. A college degree today would be equivalent to a high school diploma back then.

[Paulus Invictus]

But, but, but....we spent $10,000 on your education! Whatta waste!

[MoochPooch]

"If you want a degree, go to college. If you want an education, go to the library." --- Paul H. Gettles

Thanks. I just put this up on the bulletin board (I work at a college library). Maybe this will get the kids to read.

[Paulus Invictus]

Ooops! You've described my daughter! She has three degrees and has no job. Now she's trying for another as an expert in disaster control. She will not get a job from all that study either. Advice from old Dad did not enter her head during all this useless education. Mercy!

[MoochPooch]

every Kinko's in the city is filthy now with stoners kind of shuffling around behind the counter in a daze...

Tell me about it. I picked up this attitude while I was there to get a newsletter printed (which they screwed up). Maybe I wasn't young & cool enough.

[thoughtomator]

I hope you're not paying for that ridiculousness.

[MoochPooch]

The best Kinkos in NYC was on 34th and Madison. Although out of my way, I used them all the time. Now, they're as bad as all the rest.

That's the one I used. You're right, it has gone downhill.

Instead, I might try one of the private places.

[70times7]

I'm a professional writer and as the years go by more and more people think I'm some kind of genius for being able to put words to paper, that evoke feelings and emotions or biting satire that makes people think.

RO, AWK
...couldn't resist... ;-)

[durasell]

Let me know if you find a better place.

[Knute]

every Kinko's in the city is filthy now with stoners kind of shuffling around behind the counter in a daze...

Can't defend the entire company, but I have to "stand up proud" for the Glendale, WI store where my youngest daughter is project manager. She is a sharp young lady who bought her first house at the age of 24 and takes pride in the work she does at Kinko's to pay the bills. 2 year degree in Printing from the local tech college.

[MoochPooch]

I commend your daughter. Every store, fortunately, has its gems.

[Paulus Invictus]

Jut the first degree, not the rest. She is a very good scholar too, all As, but her choice of fields of study has been unfortunate. I heard todaay that she is nearly through with yet another MA thesis. Mercy!