What is interesting is that, while the model of education has not changed, higher education costs had increased by 8-10% above inflation over the past 20 years.
The money was not spent on research/learning. It went to build up spa-like amenities (gyms, swimming pools, etc), but primarily to administration personnel. Loads and loads of senior vice presidents and chancellors. But wait, the best paid profession in education? University sports coaches: http://deadspin.com/infographic-is-your-states-highest-paid-...
I hope online courses can provide some deflationary effect, and force re-focusing on research and learning which should be all that education is about.