... the problem, here, with open access. It necessarily waters down class discussion to the lowest common denominator, and at the same time, makes the learning environment increasingly worthless to those who NEED the higher level, deeper, richer content. Kids of higher LOG, speaking plainly.
Agreed. However some implement the AP on pace, with a separate support class for students for whom the class is a reach... it is in the support class that time management, note-taking, and any remedial discussions would take place. This would represent the temporary "scaffolding".
... what, precisely, is she CONTRIBUTING to the learning environment...
This is a very fair question. Thank you for bringing this up. Colleges especially look for those who will contribute to the student body, campus life, and/or the positive reputation of the school... those who give back in some way. With athletes the anticipated contribution is clear (they will maintain winning teams and ticket sales), with intellectuals possibly less so therefore students are encouraged to develop their extracurricular skills and interests so they may present themselves well positioned to make a contribution to the student body. I elaborated on CONTRIBUTION because possibly some are unaware, and focused solely on what a course or educational institution can do for them.
