The problem here is that everybody is wrong and everybody is right. There's no magic method that will help everyone learn everything. The answer is that we need

The problem here is that everybody is wrong and everybody is right. There's no magic method that will help everyone learn everything. The answer is that we need to figure out the right mix of things, and empower students and teachers. My knowledge of Khan Academy-type methods mostly comes from some NPR features about experiments in New York City. In the featured experiment, there was a classroom of kids that were in a workshop setting. Some using computers, others working at desks with access to a remote tutor, others talking to the teacher. The teacher was in a role more like a coach vs. a talking head at the front of the room. Different students need help at different points, and using the computerized system enabled the teacher to provide more individualized help. Educational establishment types are afraid of change -- because their power is derived from the cash flow of union duespayers whose jobs may be at risk. Silicon Valley types see a way to tap into a ridiculously large stream of money.