During the third and final presidential debate at Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY, Republican presidential nominee Senator John McCain (AZ) and Democratic presidential nominee Senator Barack Obama (IL) explain their views on how to improve education in the United States.

Discussion Questions

1. Explain the connection Sen. Obama makes between education and the future of the U.S. economy and national security. How would Sen. Obama reform the U.S. education system?
2. What does Sen. McCain argue is the key element of education reform in the U.S.? How would Sen. McCain reform the U.S. education system?
3. What is a charter school and how does it fit into the public school system? Can you think of any charter school in your own school district?
4. Compare and contrast Sen. Obama's plans for trying to reduce the rising costs of college tuition to those of Sen. McCain.