A Test for Online Education

Academia can move pretty slow, but change does occur. An example is online courses. It has taken a while to catch on, but improved technology and budget problems have led to more online courses--including Massive Open Online Courses, or MOOCs--over just the last several years. And many more are to come. The Los Angeles Times reports.

Questions...

•In the 1930s we had the honor system at Glendale College during tests. The teacher left the room and students policed themselves. What do you think changed? It's hard to believe that people are inherently better or worse, so what is it?

•Is our system of tests out of date in the computer age? What could take its place?

•How much do you see online education growing? Is it the new model for higher education, or will it always be only for some?