What are colleges for?

In reading W.E. Sedlacek's Beyond the Big Test (2004), I was driven to consider what the purpose of college is. The book focuses on the inadequacy of admissions test such at the SAT and the ACT which focus on cognitive variables (verbal and math) in order to predict college success. His argument is basically two-fold. First, the test is inadequate because it is biased toward white male cognitive patterns and measures only componential ability (i.e., ability to interpret experience in a static environment), thus unfairly relegating non-white male thinkers to lower status. Second, the test is a poor predictor of grades (beyond the first year) or retention or graduation.

Under the circumstances, he suggest replacing traditional entrance exams with assessment tools that measure also noncognitive variables that he says are better predictors of success: e.g., positive self concept, realistic self-appraisal, successfully handling the system, a preference for long-term goals, availability of strong support persons, leadership experience, community involvement (having to do with support community), and knowledge acquired in a field. His research shows that these are better predictors of success and are valid across racial groups.

My question is, how do you experience the college environment? Does it seem to be slanted toward success as defined by the white male ideal? What other models of success might there be? And finally, what is the purpose of the college? Is it there to redress civil woes?

This is your first post. I await your riposte ; )

John