They are trying to convince me to consider teaching for one of these programs as a part time gig in semi-retirement. I’m considering it – but still have to get past the profit over student’s interest piece that bugs me.[/quote]
UCGal,
That sounds like a wonderful opportunity for part-time work in semi-retirement.
Absolutely these on-line degrees I’m sure will pick up and become more popular. But quite honestly for me I learned more from college just going through the 4 years and going through the entire experience, dealing with people, living in the dorm my first year, living in a fraternity, etc.
The entire “college experience” was amazing to me. Looking back, I wouldn’t have changed anything about the experience. In fact, I want my kids to go through that experience rather than sitting at a desk learning online.
I think many people underestimate the social setting and the lessons you learn as a young adult navigating through that and dealing with so many groups of different types of people.
I think making it through college helps shape a person and makes them who they become as adults. That’s part of the reason why I think that colleges and universities will be able to charge what they do. I know many people that have the same opinion.
By the time my kids reach college if someone gives me the option to have them study and get an “online degree” for $X or go to a reputable and respected traditional University for $XXXXXX, I will still choose the traditional route even though it’s more expensive.
