The project, undertaken by Arkansas State University and a handful of researchers, has yielded some interesting facts about the plantation's owners, the Johnsons.

ECONOMIST: New interest in cotton-pickin' slaves

Paul Sikkel, an assistant professor of marine ecology and a field marine biologist at Arkansas State University, discovered the creature and decided to honor the musician.

CNN: Newly discovered ocean critter named after Bob Marley

The universities, including Arizona State, the University of Cincinnati and the University of Arkansas system, are hoping that students who pass the free MOOCs will then enroll in the schools and pay tuition to earn a degree.

FORBES: Free Online College Courses Take Big Step Forward