I see too much SEC in the SLC! Could this be improved, please? These templates and points systems, the schematic requirements, the checklists - that hinders creativity as I understand it.

I don't fully agree. While templates and point system is something that I'm also not fond of specially when it was applied to SEC but the nature of SLC requires some rules and structure, in my opinion. However, creativity is something that can be squeezed in 4 walls, if somebody wants to.

I also did a programming homework and I'm dreading the grading like a school kid. I wouldn't have liked it if my blog was graded but this time I'm eagerly waiting for the feedback because I really want to improve my skills. This time my creativity was my code. I understand that it's something that will not spark engagement. Honestly, I also have no desire to read what others did in the same course. I find it painful to read others code. But I'm happy that I got to learn and practice something which I wouldn't have done if it weren't for SLC.

I read your First Aid blog as well. (Will be commenting on it after this.) That blog was another approach to SLC which I also like. There can be a time, when I like the subject but don't want to follow the rules, I might just do the same what you did. At the end, what matters is that I enjoyed something, I learned a thing and about engagement... I can interact on non SLC stuff or people I follow, who I know will try to make SLC worth-reading too, like you did. (;

I have previously talked about - keeping the blogging space alive on steem. Courses are great but social interaction is the heart of steem. Not everyone writes here for pleasure, many have put money in the equation. And since there's very little support to bloggers now because of SLC, it won't be a surprise if blogging space becomes dead in a few months. I don't mind the SLC format but it would be great if we find a balance.

Excuse me, if you find my thoughts scattered. I'm doing three things at home while typing this comment. 😛