A recent survey shows that most students are significantly struggling with their textbook costs. The major consequence stemming from this is that in the long run they can’t get a passing grade or don’t enroll is courses altogether.
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Key Takeaways:
- Over 50% of students report that the high cost of course materials has caused them to take fewer courses or avoid registering for certain classes.
- The price of textbooks and other materials has led to lower grades and even course failures for many students.
- Community college students are particularly affected, with a higher percentage expressing concern about the affordability of course materials.
The recent survey reveals that the cost of textbooks and other course-related materials has become a barrier to student success. According to the survey, over half of the students stated that these costs had forced them to take fewer courses or avoid certain classes altogether.
Julia Seabrook, the research director for Bay View, explained that the hidden expenses of education go beyond tuition and housing. These additional costs include not only textbooks but also lab fees, digital homework systems, and printing fees. Seabrook said:
“When selecting a course, what kinds of materials and how expensive they are is often a mystery for students.”
Students’ Strategies to Cope with High Costs
In response to these financial challenges, students have developed creative ways to reduce their expenses. The survey found that most students employed multiple methods to save money, such as buying used books, finding free versions online, or sharing materials with classmates. Jeff Seaman, the director of Bay View, noted the resourcefulness of students, saying:
“I expected students to be taking action… but the extent of their efforts was surprising.”
However, these strategies aren’t without consequences. The survey reports that nearly 41% of students experienced lower grades due to the inability to afford necessary materials, with some even dropping or failing courses as a result. Besides, it is the issue that needs to be addressed in the first place since the so-called “resourcefulness” is more of a negative thing than vice versa.
How It Impacts Further Education Choices
The financial burden of course materials has a noticeable effect since it influences more than just students’ course loads. Nearly half of the students surveyed said the cost of materials affected their choice of institution or major. This trend is also noticeable among community college students, who are more likely to base their decisions on the price of materials.
The survey also highlights the role of financial aid—or the lack thereof—in covering these costs. While nearly half of the students use scholarships to fund their education, only a third report that their financial aid covers more than half of their expenses related to course materials.
What’s Next?
As awareness of the problem grows, more faculty members and administrators are taking steps to address the high costs of course materials. Another survey found that nearly two-thirds of faculty members now consider textbook affordability a priority. However, the introduction of inclusive access programs, which bundle the cost of materials into tuition fees, has sparked debate. While these programs try to provide all students with the necessary materials, they can also limit students’ ability to shop around for cheaper alternatives.
Julia Seaman stated:
“There is still more work to be done to incorporate the whole universe of course material costs for students.”
All in all, this isn’t an issue that can be sorted out in a day or a week. In order to make meaningful changes, the regular financial challenges of students need to be considered to the fullest extent, not just regarding textbooks. With the housing crisis and every other crisis there is, there will be only more problems arising from this, so it’s best to stop it sooner rather than later.
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