I wasn't aware that this forum was about photography; I thought it was just about cameras.
I think it's worth a shot, but I guess it has to start off open ended to account for it being off season for many people right now. If it works, it works. If it doesn't, it's not like it's that much time invested in coming up with an assignment or two.
Yes! Please bring back assignments! I am really trying to hone my adventure photography skills, and assignments would be a great way to focus building specific skills.