Comparing the process and populations of higher education in the 1960s and 1970s with today, several ongoing patterns and significant differences emerge. During the 1960s and 1970s, affirmative action and financial aid programs, such as the Higher Education Act of 1965 and the introduction of the Pell Grant Program, were pivotal in promoting access to higher education for underrepresented groups. These efforts continue today, albeit in evolved forms, as affirmative action and financial aid remain critical in ensuring educational opportunities for diverse populations. Community colleges, which expanded significantly during the earlier period to provide more accessible education pathways, continue to play a vital role in serving diverse and often underserved communities.
However, today's higher education landscape faces new challenges and changes. The cost of higher education has skyrocketed compared to the 1960s and 1970s, significantly increasing the financial burden on students. This rise in costs has led to a substantial increase in student loan debt, a concern that was much less pronounced in the earlier decades. The demographics of the student population have also continued to evolve. There is a notable increase in non-traditional students, including adult learners, part-time students, and online learners. These shifts reflect the changing needs and preferences of the population, with many individuals seeking flexible learning options that accommodate their personal and professional lives.
Affirmative action policies have faced significant legal challenges and public debate over the years, altering the ways institutions can actively recruit and support underrepresented students. Despite these challenges, efforts to promote diversity and inclusion remain a key focus for many institutions. Technological advancements have further transformed the delivery of education. The rise of online learning has expanded access to higher education, making it possible for students to learn from anywhere. However, this shift also raises questions about the quality and equity of online education compared to traditional in-person learning.
While the foundational goals of increasing access and promoting equity in higher education remain consistent from the 1960s and 1970s to today, the strategies and challenges have evolved. The ongoing commitment to supporting underrepresented groups through affirmative action and financial aid continues to be crucial. At the same time, rising costs, increasing student debt, changing student demographics, and technological advancements present new dynamics that shape the current and future landscape of higher education.
References.
Cohen, A. M., & Kisker, C. B. (2010). The shaping of American higher education: Emergence and growth of the contemporary system (2nd ed.).
