Adding upstrum & downstrum indications is a great suggestion.  And that's exactly the sort of thing that was not done consistently in older lessons, but is now a standard notation feature.   

I think if you look at anything Mike published in the last few years you will see strumming patterns taught & indicated.

I appreciate your thoughts on pedagogy.  I agree with them!

Regarding a path forward, please let me know your goals & I will help you find the right content!

Thanks for your honesty!