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As some who really enjoys online courses, this is really disappointing news. I know it takes a huge amount of dedication to finish an online class (especially a free one where the cost of dropping out is zero). Hopefully Udacity et al can figure out the pedagogy before the Georgia Tech online CS masters begins (http://www.omscs.gatech.edu).

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I bet there will be many similar cases before the behavior of students taking MOOCs changes. I just hope it doesn't dissuade the effort. I'm sure the long-term benefit of the effort is worth it.

The behavior of students won't change quickly, maybe not at all. The outside expectations might have to be lowered. Maybe a diagnostic exam should be offered.

From what I understand, the admission criteria for the GT OMS is that one is accepted conditionally until he/she passes 2 courses with a B or better, and then is fully admitted.

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