MIT OpenCourseWare introduces courses designed for independent learners
As a young autodidact struggling to fit into the traditional education world this is a welcome gift.  To me a traditional diploma granting institution is now akin to a rubber stamp.  You're not paying for the education, you're paying for the brand under the assumption that it will get you a job.  I could rant, but I plan on doing it in a cohesive and informed blog release or something at a later date.<p>MIT diffuses my cynicism with steps like this.  In an academic system I do not trust there are clearly intelligent like minded people enabled to make a difference.  After years of dreading my involvement with academia, movements like this make me want to wander back in with an open mind.<p>If anyone involved with MIT OpenCourseWare ever reads this please know that I respect and appreciate what you have done for people thirsty for knowledge.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart.