Most of us aren't going to be able to effectively oppose school districts, teachers unions, governments and political parties. And mostly we don't need to, partly because people mostly don't want to change (in much the same way that pigs don't want to fly), but mostly because we can usually find a group of like minded people interested in what we're interested in (which is quite distinct from finding like minded people who want to force everyone to be like us). The most attainable thing is to try to make the thing we want viable and accessible to people who want it.

Which brings us back to your original comment on MOOCs. (Disclosure: I have purposely still not read your linked Reddit thread.)

It looks like you believe MOOCs provide something worthwhile. Without asking why, I tend to agree with you. But rather than try to convince everyone that MOOCs are an essential part of some large strategy, work at a lower level, trying to ensure that MOOCs remain viable and that they grow in maturity. Just having MOOCs available to anyone who thinks that MOOCs will solve their particular issue is great.

You might work on MOOC infrastructure, or from the educational side, or you might just be a non-annoying advocate. :) Just making people aware of the existence and utility of MOOCs would be a very positive thing.

I used to want to change the world, but I've come to see that the world is already changing, constantly. Once in awhile someone comes along and tries to determine the direction of the world for everyone. That always ends in disaster.

Best if you try to make your little geographical or intellectual or moral patch of the world a better place. Lots of better patches are likely to result in a good world direction, whatever that is.

MOOC on, dude. :)

Wise words.

In my attempt to remain impartial in my opening I think I've come across too skeptical of the existing MOOCs (and by extension other tools). I really appreciate what MOOCs have done for us, and become (so far). They're awesome - and I'll always be an advocate. It's the first evolution in something special. I'm just impatient and want to see something more profound come from it :P

Other then that, I think you're right. We do have a chance to create a bit of a space aimed at bringing people together (for whatever they want to pursue). And looking at keeping the barrier to entry low. Your views have been invaluable! Thanks.