Coursera, edX - the future?

Parents Forum
1

<p>College costs are spiraling beyond the easy reach of middle class families. State college is severely impacted by cuts in state subsidies. Yet, paradoxically, a college education is as necessary now as a high school degree was necessary 50 years ago.</p>

<p>Colleges recognize that the lemon (families) is almost squeezed dry. So, these college are now turning to the Internet trying to figure out how to monetize their premier assets - their ability to educate and their "brand,", without diluting the "brand." </p>

<p>A few years ago, you could watch a MIT lecture on line, but there was no real interaction between lecturer and the audience. Then, some small colleges (e.g., Ashford) entered the on-line world with real courses and real degrees. Now, comes Coursera and EdX bringing the big boys and offering an ever broadening array of courses (some with over 100,000 students) (I'm taking a history course from a Princeton professor - its fabulous!).</p>

<p>For now, these courses are free as the big boys try to figure out how to monetize their assets. </p>

<p>So, does anyone want to offer their view on what a college education might look like in a decade?</p>

2

<p>My prediction is not for 10 years out but for 20-30: Most coursework will be completed in the comfort of one’s home. Students may go to some local campus for lab work, exams or other activities of choice. Residential colleges will still host some students doing a one to two year mentoring program working with a professor. There will still be competition to get a place with the most respected faculty in any given field.</p>

3

<p>There will always be value in young men and women joining a community to learn from each other and grow together. Perhaps fewer will be able to afford it. On-line courses will be fine for many things, but no substitute for a real four-year college.</p>