Gugi,
I can wholeheartedly agree! Most of my instructors were frustrated that they could not keep the same edition, and some would teach from older editions when they could. It does seem a college education is almost a must. I love my job and it is easy and I have a great boss and co-workers and corporate environment, not many can say that - but would not have this job without that piece of paper.
However, just like the line in "Good Will Hunting," (paraphrased) Yeah, the expensive education you have could be had for a couple of dollars worth of late fees from your local library. One could, with proper motivation, learn just about all there is on any subject from books, libraries, Internet, or even the itunes University. However, one must have that expensive, pretty, parchment to say that they learned something from some institution to get a job.
I know this is a rant and off topic - my apologies. I will say that I have had some very good experiences in Higher Education especially Community College. I also had a lot of wonderful instructors who would have been happy to help each student more. In fact, many begged for students to come see them during their office hours. Not a dig on MOST instructors, just the system.
All of this from Neutrinos that are faster than a speeding bullet, er.... the Speed Of Light!