[seferphier]

Author is simply trying to say that going to college was not for him since he is a kinesthetic learner and prefers learn by doing.

I believe he is advocating a dual system of education with a combination of college or apprenticeship since there are different types of learners out there. College is the 'only way out' for many people, otherwise you would be considered a failure and cannot find a job.

[jmspring]

A dual system, if you wanted to just turn out programmers who know the basics of scripting, how to use a language, and build applications might work.

If the "dual" system were to include architecture, algorithms, discrete math, and deeper subjects that a typical CS curriculum usually covers, what's the point of an apprenticeship system if it is replicating academia?

I can see a need for a trades like class, but here in the US we already have an assortment of community colleges, certificate programs and the like that replicate that model.