How Online Learning Offers Low-Cost Higher Education

The transcript discusses the expansion of free online courses and their impact on global education. It highlights the diversity in higher education, the role of MOOCs in closing skills gaps, and the importance of lifelong learning. The rising costs of traditional education are contrasted with the value of in-person experiences. The target audience for online courses is broad, including high school students, retirees, and professionals seeking further education.

What is the primary benefit of offering courses online for free?

• To reduce the cost of traditional degrees

• To expand educational opportunities globally

• To eliminate the need for physical universities

• To increase the number of college graduates

How do MOOCs help in closing the skills gap?

• By reducing the cost of education

• By replacing traditional college education

• By offering advanced courses to high school students and degree holders

• By providing free degrees to everyone

What has been the trend in tuition costs over the past 15 years?

• They have increased by about 50%

• They have remained stable

• They have increased by about 164%

• They have decreased significantly

What percentage of a college education cost is attributed to classroom experience today?

• 25%

• 50%

• 75%

• 10%

What is the role of scholarships in the rising tuition costs?

• They have been eliminated

• They have become more generous, offsetting some costs

• They have remained the same

• They have decreased significantly

Who are the primary participants in online courses according to the transcript?

• Only professionals

• High school students, retirees, and professionals

• Only college students

• Only retirees

What is a significant challenge faced by online courses?

• High enrollment fees

• Limited access to technology

• Low completion rates

• Lack of course variety