167. Rethinking College: Innovation & Reform with Dr. Robert Zemsky

The higher education system's struggles are examined through the lens of retention rates and curriculum relevance. Dr. Robert Zemsky, Chair of the Learning Alliance for Higher Education, argues that colleges face a product failure, evidenced by the significant number of students not returning after their freshman year. He suggests that faculty often prioritize teaching what they want rather than what the market or students need, leading to a disconnect and waste. Zemsky advocates for fundamental redesign, such as the College-in-3 initiative, to address these issues. He highlights the varying challenges faced by different types of institutions, from struggling liberal arts colleges to state regional schools, and emphasizes the need for experimentation and adaptation to meet students' needs and market demands. The discussion also touches on the importance of connections and personal experiences in choosing a college.