Statistical Literacy

At the end of Joel Best's article, Lies, Calculations and Constructions: Beyond How to Lie with Statistics, he said that someone must take the initiative in educating people in statistics.  He also said he doubts it will be Ph.D. statisticians who will do this because they might feel it is beneath them.  Today we talked about the about free online classes that are available to anyone and the pros and cons of them.  Although diversity in teaching methods will be virtually nonexistent in these classes, at least someone is taking the initiative.  The general public could be able to improve their statistical literacy, and if it leads to more interest in the subject, there could be a desire to take courses at a community college or university.  Classes like this are able to help the public understand statistics and not be fooled by the media's misinterpretation.