Prep Material Surge examines the growing reliance on commercial academic support materials in higher education and professional certification. It explores whether students are truly learning or simply mastering test-taking through resources like outlines and test banks. This book investigates the economics of the prep material industry while analyzing student usage patterns and their impact on academic outcomes.

The book reveals intriguing facts, such as how the pressure to score high on standardized testing incentivizes students to seek shortcuts, and the potential for over-reliance on these materials to hinder the development of deeper knowledge. It is written in an accessible style, drawing upon student surveys and analyses of exam scores.

Providing actionable recommendations for educators and policymakers, the book progresses from an overview of the commercial prep material ecosystem to a detailed analysis of student usage and performance, concluding with strategies to promote effective learning.

Clara Vinton

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