SHIFTING REALITIES IN HIGHER EDUCATION: TODAY'S BUSINESS MODEL THREATENS OUR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

ABSTRACT

American institutions of higher education have an excellent reputation throughout the world as first rate academic centers that do an exceptional job of preparing young citizens for their future roles of leadership in business, government and our society. Colleges and universities are expected to develop young learners by teaching them knowledge, skills and above all, the ability to engage in critical thinking. This article opines that our universities' outstanding reputations are challenged by the unique pressures upon administrators, faculty, and students to prepare those in our classes for their careers. This treating of the student body as customers has lessened the rigor of the curricula and teaching methods. The authors present several recommendations for improvement of our liberal arts schools in today's rapidly changing world community.

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