Oklahoma's Failing Education System

Quality seems to be lacking in today's education system. Oklahoma's teachers struggle financially, as do the school systems themselves. This, in turn, translates to the low test scores seen across the state. Lack of funding and consolidations cause class sizes to skyrocket from kindergarten to graduate school. These factors, among others, lead to students falling behind academically, unable to catch up once they're lost.

Higher education is not exempt from these pitfalls. Some classes require laboratory exercises, which may not be the best available depending on the location and funding of the facility. Other classes must be overfilled for the same reasons as in primary and secondary schools. Limited space, staff, and resources have necessitated classes be given online and via television.

While these classes can be beneficial to some students, they are detrimental to students who have no background in the course material. Advanced math classes, for example, would be difficult for a student returning to college after several years. Likewise, college-level English classes would be trying for a student who lacks basic grammar skills, but through classroom interaction, the instructor could realize the need for further instruction. An online or ITV course would not offer the same attention.

As evidenced in many recent studies, the number of students graduating from college without a solid education is increasing. Some would say this trend is a result of increased drug and alcohol use. Although the overuse of these substances may contribute, it is not the sole culprit of the downfall of higher education. As in all other areas of American society, money and location determine the success of many students' college experiences.

This does not mean all colleges in wealthy, urban areas have higher test scores and graduation rates. However, it has been the trend in education over the past decade. Perhaps President Bush's "No Child Left Behind" campaign will influence higher education as well and the primary and secondary school systems. Optimistically, it could. But I wouldn't hold your breath.