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Academically Adrift
272 pages, 2011
It's no surprise that most students go to college, but the cost of tuition has never been higher. For years, parents have been planning for college when their children are born. But in Academically Adrift, Richard Arum and Josipa Roksa challenge the idea that undergraduates really learn much once they get there.
Their research is based on survey data and transcript data, as well as a standardized test administered to students in their first semester and then again at the end of their second year.
In Academically Adrift, Richard Arum explores the harsh reality that many students are not learning much during their college years. He presents research showing that a significant number of students show little to no improvement in critical thinking, complex reasoning, and writing skills during their time in college. This is a wake-up call for students to take a look at their academic progress and make necessary changes.
Arum emphasizes the importance of rigorous academic programs. He finds that students who are challenged academically show more significant improvements in their skills. So, if you're a student, you might want to check if your program is pushing you enough to grow.
The book also explores the role of social engagement in academic performance. Arum's research suggests that students who spend more time studying with peers and less time on extracurricular activities tend to perform better academically. This might make you rethink how you balance your social and academic life.
Academically Adrift digs into the impact of college on career success. Arum suggests that the lack of academic rigor and learning in college can lead to less successful careers. This is a crucial point for students to consider when planning their future.
Lastly, Arum calls for educational reform. He believes that colleges and universities need to take responsibility for the lack of learning happening on their campuses. If you're passionate about education, this book will inspire you to join the conversation about how we can improve our higher education system.
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Academically Adrift is a wake-up call for all those engaged in higher education. It shows that many undergraduates are not learning what they should, while facing ever increasing costs.
Derek Bok - Harvard University PresidentAcademically Adrift raises serious questions about the quality of the academic and social experiences of college students. It's a must-read for all who care about the future of higher education.
Anthony Marx - NYPL PresidentAcademically Adrift is a profoundly sobering study of how little many students learn during their college years. It should cause all of us to rethink the nature and purpose of higher education.
Andrew Delbanco - Columbia University ProfessorAcademically Adrift is a powerful and disturbing book that should be read by every university trustee, administrator, faculty member, parent, and public policy maker.
William G. Bowen - Princeton University PresidentAcademically Adrift is the most important book on higher education in a decade. Compared to the intense debates about K-12 education, the failure of our college and universities has gone virtually unremarked.
Claudia Dreifus - Journalist, Author