Khan/Koller Review

When I visited Khan Academy, I could envision using it personally as an alternative teaching approach or an extra resource.  The Academy would be great for my future students.  I would use the Academy as supplemental or 'extra practice' material for lessons done in class.  It had a younger feel to it because of the avatars and I think that would really appeal to the younger generation.  The videos were interesting and very well thought out.  I am impressed with the vast knowledge that Salman Khan possesses.   I do believe that technology is getting more and more relied upon in education and consequently life.  It is through online format that material can be presented in a one-on-one. It also allows students to work at their own pace.  Online course material makes education more widespread and accessible.  I am concern of the lack of actual personal contact through online learning.  I fear interpersonal skills being deficit for the future generations.

When I visited the Coursera site I was amazed.  I was most intrigued about the variety of institutions providing courses.  I would be inclined to take courses that were in education (theory and practices).  The Aboriginal Worldviews and Education course really sparked my curiosity. It would be awesome if everything taken would be transferable.  However, I discovered only six course you could get college credit through the ACE.  I searched for accreditation at CSCC and did not see that credit would be given.  I think the courses sound very interesting and challenging.  I would be more inclined to take courses that I would not necessarily have on my schedule in a traditional program just for that fact that it doesn't cost anything.  And, yes, I think the challenges would rely on WHO and WHERE is teaching the course.   I  expect an educational challenge with some institutions because of their standards.  I think we a long way off before MOOC is the 'new normal'.  I think that college is big business and many people benefit and rely on the high cost of tuition and the exclusivity of a university education.