Get Outa Here

Fall                                                              Fallowturn Moon

Oct. 19, 2012

In a move that has many scratching their heads, Minnesota’s Office of Higher Education has banned Coursera — an educational technology startup that provides massive open online courses (MOOC’S) — citing a longstanding state law that prohibits degree-granting institutions from offering instruction in Minnesota without obtaining permission from the office and paying a registration fee. The state claims Coursera was never granted such permission.

(pic.  for the Minnesota Office of Higher Education)

My recent note to the Minnesota Office of Higher Education:

Coursera decision. I’m retired. I live in the far burbs. This education comes to me free of charge over the internet, delivered to my home.

I’m not sure what policy goal this decision served, but it’s the wrong message to send to self-directed learners and to all who want to see online education spread, not be punished.

If this was a diploma mill, good on you, but a free, non-degree granting institution. Got me scratching my head. I’m taking Mythology from Un. of Pa. right now and having a blast.