Randy Proto Outlines a 'Career First' Approach to Education

WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Randy Proto, CEO of American Institute, an education expert and frequent voice for issues regarding higher education today spoke regarding his Career First Approach to Education. Saying, "The Career First Approach to Education is based upon principles that have been in use in career schools and colleges for a few decades. In some ways, it really is a variation on and extension of the 'degree in three' theme."

The Career First Approach to Education basically front loads a program with the necessary skills courses in order for an individual to actually gain employment and leaves the ancillary elective courses to the back end that could be taken at a part-time pace, online, or full-time on campus, through innovative year-round schedules.

"This frontloaded approach will allow individuals to earn a valuable credential quickly - a diploma in advance of an A.S. degree or an A.S., or A.O.S. in advance of a B.S./B.A. degree," added Proto. "If it was widely implemented it would increase the available labor pool, completion rates would improve, and we would serve adults better as they like to achieve their basic economic objectives as quickly as possible."

Importantly, Proto believes that a prerequisite to broader use of and benefit from the Career First approach is to greatly increase portability and recognition of credits between various institutions. In his view, this will not only drive more individuals to successfully achieve career goals and increase the number of educated workers in the labor force, but also will result in more individuals pursuing undergraduate and other degrees - and studying academic and liberal arts subjects. Subjects he believes are crucial.

"My experience with non-traditional students has been that success breeds a desire to continue to learn. I often see students who enter a diploma program afraid of failing. Often these individuals have graduated from High School, but in a number of cases it was years earlier and they may not have had the most positive High School experiences. This creates a situation where many lack confidence in themselves and their educational ability. Many also lack an excitement about learning," said Proto. "With a postsecondary success under their belt and improved earnings prospects, they are prime candidates for continuing on and earning other undergraduate credentials. Many do, but we must create more opportunities for them and for this to occur through more fair, less biased credit transfer mechanisms and innovative Career First type approaches."

The entire Career First Approach to Education as outlined by Proto can be read here: http://www.randyproto-education.com/2010/12/01/college-a-career-first-approach/

SOURCE Career First Approach to Education