I understand that the European academy grew up in the days when books and other tools of education were costly and rare, so going to the Perian Spring to become educated took hold. In the nineteenth and early twentieth century books became more affordable, but still costly, so communities showed a commitment to knowledge by sinking their own wells into the spring. They started libraries and in some cases colleges (Explaining the inability to throw a rock in the Northeast US without hitting a college.). In the 21st century knowledge is broadcast through the web, via podcasts, and on TV. Libraries are falling into disuse and academe is under siege by those looking for a lower cost paradigm.
How long will be before we see the opening of the Semiautodidactic State University. Curriculum, but no classes or labs. You can get those on your own through the free lectures available on the web and the lab kits you can buy. SSU will only offer testing, credentials, and diplomas certifying work submitted. The Bullet Heads, as students will call themselves, will be freed from the restrictions of the classroom and the costs of the literal "Old School" educational system.
You scream, No! You worry about what society will lose?
No problem, the administration at SSU will support the activities the public values most from higher education. Hollow Point Football and Basketball teams will compete for the BCS Bowl Championship and in March Madness. After all, without scheduled classes our athletes will be free to train and compete according to the game schedule instead of the class schedule.
T.S. Hall
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