Myth vs. Truth: The Real Story of College Textbooks
- 1. 1 AAP } Myth vs. Truth: The Real Story of College Textbooks
- 2. 2 AAP } The Real Story… Did you know the amount students spend on textbooks is one of the only college expenses that’s declining? Here are a few myths and truths about college course materials that may be news to you…
- 3. 3 AAP } Students are spending more than ever on college textbooks. Truth Student spending on course materials has decreased in recent years. The amount students spent on course materials went down 12% from $691 in the 2014 – 2015 academic year. (figures from Student Monitor survey, 2015-2016 academic year) Myth
- 4. 4 AAP } Colleges can’t help students save money on course materials. Truth Many colleges are partnering with learning companies on Digital Access Programs that allow students to pay for course materials with tuition and fees. Students pay up to 70% less than traditional print books and have their course materials by the first day of class, an important part of college success. Myth
- 5. 5 AAP } Students spend so much on course materials that they can’t afford anything else. Truth Students report spending $367 per month on discretionary items (such as entertainment and eating out). This is nearly five times what they spend on essential items like course materials. (figure from Student Monitor survey, 2015/2016 academic year) Myth
- 6. 6 AAP } Textbooks cost $1,300 per year. Truth Students spent about $600 on course materials during the 2015-2016 academic year. This frequently-cited College Board statistic is often used out of context. It represents books AND supplies and is an estimated budget average from university financial aid offices. It does not represent what students are actually spending. Myth
- 7. 7 AAP } The cost of course materials is the biggest burden on students. Truth The cost of course materials is just 2-5% of the total cost of college. Tuition and fees alone are 39% of the overall college cost for one year at a four year public college and 67% at a four year private college. (figures calculated with College Board information) Myth
- 8. 8 AAP } Learning companies aren’t doing anything to help students succeed or save money. Truth Learning companies recognize that college is expensive. That’s why they offer more engaging and less expensive digital course materials, which can increase student success and save students up to 60% compared to the cost of print materials. Myth
- 9. 9 AAP } Students aren’t willing to spend money on course materials. Truth College students actually spent 61% less on course materials than they said they were willing to pay. Students spent an average of $75 per course material, but said they’d pay a maximum of $194 for materials they found extremely useful, according to Student Watch. Myth
- 10. 10 AAP } Students see their course materials as a waste of money and don’t use them. Truth According to NACS, 79% of students indicated their course materials were either a very good or somewhat good investment. Students use their books quite frequently: 95% use them to complete reading assignments and to study for an exam; 93% used them to complete homework assignments and 74% used them to assist with class projects. Myth
- 11. 11 AAP } For more information: www.aapbacktocampus.org www.publishers.org @HEPublishers