> start using real world examples of what kind of work student would be working with as an employee
College isn't hands on employee training; the employer can do that if they want it. College is for the student, and not just for their career - there is much more to life. Knowledge is power for the student.
Even working with computers, theory is more universally valuable knowledge than the current programming trend - the wonderful thing about a theoretical abstraction is that it applies everywhere. For example, lots of practical high level coding experience is now less valuable, while people who truly understand theory can apply their knowledge somewhere new.
If absolute majority of students passing through the academia are going into private employment and not doing science, academia should not pretend that their primary purpose is making scientists.
By 'more to life' I don't mean being a scientist; I mean there is far more than career - personal life, community member, family member (including parent), living in the world. For many people, career is the least important and rewawrding (though necessary).
College isn't hands on employee training; the employer can do that if they want it. College is for the student, and not just for their career - there is much more to life. Knowledge is power for the student.
Even working with computers, theory is more universally valuable knowledge than the current programming trend - the wonderful thing about a theoretical abstraction is that it applies everywhere. For example, lots of practical high level coding experience is now less valuable, while people who truly understand theory can apply their knowledge somewhere new.