>They're more of a form of "continued learning" that many universities offer to adults and seniors. Learning for a small audience that actively seeks it out.
Which is why you heard so much howling when Udacity first "pivoted." Continuing education for mostly early to mid-career professionals, often with grad degrees is one thing. (And, yes, there are stories including in the comments here about Coursera being someone's big break but they're a small minority.) Which is great. But it was a real kick in the teeth to the people who saw MOOCs as this great opportunity for populations underserved by traditional higher ed.
Which is why you heard so much howling when Udacity first "pivoted." Continuing education for mostly early to mid-career professionals, often with grad degrees is one thing. (And, yes, there are stories including in the comments here about Coursera being someone's big break but they're a small minority.) Which is great. But it was a real kick in the teeth to the people who saw MOOCs as this great opportunity for populations underserved by traditional higher ed.