College or Self Educated?

[shellbyrne]

My dd is almost 16 so we're starting to think about college - ugh.  First of all i do want her to have opportunities that a higher education provides. 

My problem is the sheer cost of a college education.  For example textbooks that cost $300, only to be obsolete soon after. 

Does learning really have to be so expensive, really?  I never went to college.  My favorite subjects are history and English - so I've kept myself sharp (somewhat) because I have an interest.  I can converse intelligently with educated people.

Obviously some subjects, like medicine or law, must be taught at college.  But for the basic pre-required subjects, why can't we educate ourselves, then take an equivalency examination?   Like the GED is for high school.

We are pressured to further our education.  It is also a social distinction.   Material and Social sucess depends upon it.  But what a ridiculous cost!!! 

I realize that financial aid and grants and scholarships are available.  But that does nothing for poor teaching, or that classrooms are hotbeds of political ideology, nor does it solve logistical problems for the student.

I would love to see a reform in higher education, kind of how homeschooling has been a reform to basic education.   If people can pass a tough examination, does it matter if they taught themselves?