Digital (In)equality and Politics: Can Technology Change the World?

Digital (In)equality and Politics: Can Technology Change the World?

We are very cognizant of your long and distinguished record of scholarship and teaching in the areas of political philosophy and ethics. It is in a spirit of respect and collegiality that we are urging you, and all professors involved with the sale and promotion of edX-style courses, not to take away from students in public universities the opportunity for an education beyond mere jobs training. Professors who care about public education should not produce products that will replace professors, dismantle departments, and provide a diminished education for students in public universities.

Sincerely and in solidarity, The Department of Philosophy San José State University

Analyze

One. What are the two broad issues that the authors point to for writing their letter?

Two. What are the three components of a good-quality education, according to the authors?

Three. Why do the authors fear two classes of universities will be created as a result of the use of MOOCs and other technologies in education?

Four. Near the end of the letter, the authors make a reference to "empty rhetoric." What are they referring to?

Five. What is the "crux of the problem," according to the authors?