UK Higher Education needs more radical change than a debate about who funds it

With the current media and political debate about the future funding of education (and the rest of the entire public sector for that matter), I was struck with the thought that perhaps the wrong question is being asked.

Is funding or cutting the same model of higher education the real issue. Or would a more radical shake up of higher education be more affordable and indeed more effective at preparing our young people for work and life in the 21st Century?

So, I've set up a debate which I'm inviting you to contribute your thoughts. You can access it it here:

http://www.createdebate.com/debate/show/UK_Higher_Education_needs_more_radical_change_than_a_debate_about_who_funds_it

To help you get going consider the following:

Do you think a smart student of today would be right to question starting a 3 year degree course and incur significant debt in the process...OR...

Spend those three years developing work experience with supplementary online study?

Imagine if this was your own decision, or your child's decision - what would you do?

Indeed if you are a young student this is a real dilemma for you - would love to hear your views.