From a world system theory perspective and taking into consideration the competitive–and often politically conflicting nature of the global economy and comparative ranking of American′s educational system relative to other countries—how will America′s economy—and our quality of life be potentially affected (e.g., wages, job security)? Students should include in their contemplation′s how the purpose and objectives of higher education have changed since the times of Horace Mann compared to what is currently characterized as the ″degree mill′ for-profit nature of online education, regional universities, community colleges, etc… How, too, have the attitudes of college students changed towards education in general? Do they symbolically perceive themselves as students in learning or as consumers ″purchasing″ a product in credentials? What can you envision as a potential outcome to America′s for-profit education system regarding access to equal opportunity as influenced by social-economic status? Taking the above into consideration how might this affect U.S. students′ competitive capacity in the international job market?
