The $10,000 college question - Herald Tribune Editorial

When the governor issued his "$10,000 Degree Challenge" last week, he did so without details or a plan for actually lowering the cost of a Florida college education. That gap led cynics to question the motives of Gov. Rick Scott, whose budget ax and policies have created tension with higher education advocates. Some called Scott's move a "gimmick," and it may well be one. But set aside motives for a moment, and ponder the possibilities. Tapping free on-line courses -- now being offered by some of the nation's top universities -- is one possible path to lower costs. Indeed, the future seems to be pointing in this direction. But currently, it is not clear that such programs lead to degrees and jobs. A Businessweek article in August reported that "Companies including Intel and Dell say they probably wouldn't hire someone who holds an online certificate rather than a degree." http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20121202/OPINION/312029997/-1/news?Title=Editorial-The-10-000-college-question