Now That Information Is Free, What's a College Campus For?

The author questions the relevance of college campuses in the era of free access to information. They argue that the traditional college experience, including face-to-face interactions and hands-on learning, is no longer necessary for acquiring knowledge. Online resources, such as Coursera and edX, provide free access to a vast array of courses from top universities, making it possible for anyone to learn from the best without having to attend a physical institution. The author suggests that the value of a college campus lies not in the knowledge it imparts, but in the social and personal growth that comes from being part of a community, making connections, and developing skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. However, they acknowledge that this perspective is not universally applicable and that there are still many benefits to attending college, particularly for those who require a more structured and supportive learning environment.