Admittedly I’ve been thinking this is the only way as well.

> That means moving away from take-home assignments and essays and toward in-class blue book essays, oral examinations, required office hours and other assessments that call on students to demonstrate knowledge in real time.

This kind of direct interaction / engagement by everyone might lead to better understanding buy students, and a better feel for what their students know by teachers.

Perhaps the problem is far deeper. Degrees have become commoditized, i.e. "students" want a degree and as a result a well paid job / career.

Those who truly seek knowledge and deep understanding don't take shortcuts. But that attitude is rare in our consumerified world.