Is it possible to systematically educate someone based on a series of internet discussions with both amateurs and professionals in the field who genuinely hold an interest in the subject? E.g. I learned more from the “What would happen if you halted advertising for major brands like Coke and Pepsi” thread than I did from struggling to stay awake in Intro to Business and grudgingly doing the readings and taking summary notes on the textbook.

(Bonus metaquestion: Is it the fault of the individual or the institution if someone finds that posting to BBQ/MeFi hones their critical thinking skills and piques their interest in the world more than attending class does?)

Posted by Phire