Georgetown research: Student loan debt and higher education’s ROI

"Georgetown research: Student loan debt and higher education’s ROI" is a podcast interview with Anthony Carnevale, Director for the Center of Education and Workforce at Georgetown University. Carnevale comments upon the idea of student loan as a good thing, as long as the student is getting a good return on their investment (ROI). To this end, Carnevale supports ROI metrics for all programs students may consider as options for postsecondary education. Noting Senator Harkins report on for profit institutions, Carnevale discusses the precedent for economic outcomes regarding postsecondary education, but also expresses the need for further more sophisticated development of such metrics. Relating K-12 education to the conversation, Carnevale asserts while the Common Core Standards are ultimately a good idea, they support the notion of a singular pathway to postsecondary education (four year degree), as opposed to the diverse array of options for students. Carnevale cautions this type of singular policy will contribute to the stratification of higher education across class and race lines. Concluding the conversation with recommendations for the next administration, Carnevale suggests a focus on funding, particularly as a resource to motivate postsecondary institutions to behave in a more efficient manner. Interview facilitation, commentary and discussion presented by Kathryn Dodge, Alison Griffin, and Elise Scanlon of Radio Higher Ed.