BreakDrink: [AUDIO] Daily Dose February 10, 2012

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Arizona Bill Challenges What Can Be Said in the Classroom

In a bill introduced by Republican Senator Lori Klein, the use of “obsenities in the classroom, may get faculty members suspended or even removed from their jobs. The “G-rated” bill would require that lectures and speech used in the classroom setting comply with Federal Communication Commission guidelines. Professors worry this will keep them from discussing truly educational topics such as sexual health, or discussing literature which may contain explicit language.
In another bill, Republican representative Tom Forese wants to protect conservative faculty from being discriminated against for their political and/or religious beliefs. While the AAUP supports non-discriminatory practices, they worry the bill will just add more complication to hiring procedures. In fact, they worry the bill would actually make political and religious beliefs a larger issue with the bill requiring proof of plurality among hires.

Higher Pell Grants Increase Rural Community College Enrollment

In a study by the University of Alabama Education Policy Center, found that the increase in Pell Grant funds given to the state of Kansas increased enrollments at community colleges. The study also found that the number of full time enrolled students increased due to the additional funding. Read the study.

Open Source Most Cost Effective

USNews reports on a study out of Daytona State which claims students only save $1 per semester by using e-textbooks. The problem is due to the expensive cost of an e-reader (such as an ipad or kindle) which is required to access many e-books and e-publications. Instead, they point out the use of open source materials, like those used by Khan Academy or the Open Course Library in Washington State, are actually more effective at reducing costs for students.