Laurence Steinberg

Laurence Steinberg is a psychology professor at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and coauthor of Beyond the Classroom: Why School Reform Has Failed and What Parents Need to Do .In the following viewpoint, he argues that the crisis in public education is largely due to outside social factors, not specific educational standards and policies. Parental irresponsibility, after- school jobs and social activities, and a decreased commitment to academic achievement among students leaves many college- bound youth unprepared for higher education, Steinberg contends. He concludes that students and families must genuinely commit themselves to the process of education for public schools to succeed.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to a recent study of the California State University system, what percentage of freshmen need remedial instruction in math"

2. How many hours...