Whether courses from Coursera-like sites are more useful than formal education depends on a number of factors, including your learning goals, your individual learning style, and the specific course or program you are considering.

Here are some of the pros and cons of Coursera-like sites:

Pros:

• Flexibility: You can learn at your own pace and on your own time.
• Convenience: You can access courses from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Variety: There are courses on a wide variety of topics, from computer science to business to history.
• Cost: Many courses are free or low-cost.

Cons:

• Lack of interaction: You may not have as much interaction with your instructor or other students as you would in a traditional classroom setting.
• Self-discipline: You need to be self-motivated to succeed in an online course.
• Quality: The quality of courses can vary, so it’s important to do your research before you enroll.

Formal education:

• Pros:
  • You have the opportunity to learn from experienced professors and interact with other students.
  • You may be able to get financial aid to help pay for your education.
  • A degree from a reputable institution can help you get a job or advance your career.
• Cons:
  • Formal education can be expensive.
  • It can be time-consuming to complete a degree program.
  • You may not have as much flexibility as you would with an online course.

Ultimately, the best way to decide whether a Coursera-like site or formal education is right for you is to consider your individual needs and goals. If you are looking for a flexible and convenient way to learn, a Coursera-like site may be a good option. However, if you want the benefits of interacting with professors and other students, and getting a degree from a reputable institution, formal education may be a better choice.

Here are some additional factors to consider when making your decision:

• Your learning goals: What do you want to achieve by taking a course? Are you looking to learn a new skill, advance your career, or simply gain knowledge?
• Your individual learning style: Do you prefer to learn independently or in a group setting? Do you need a lot of structure or are you more comfortable working on your own?
• The specific course or program: What are the course requirements? How much time will you need to commit to the course? What is the cost of the