Matt,
I do not agree to this:
"it tends to filter out the actual bugs from the situations that are more a question of user understanding and education."

It is always a hunt for resolution and reliance on particular user's memory of scattered posts & solutions and a will of those mentioned to help. If the bug reporting thread is in place, it would be a simple "bump": "I have same issue". Without starting another thread. If it was reported and not resolved, send poor soul to bump that thread. If it was solved, point to "Resolved" post.

1) It could create a single database for known issues.
2)Fixed or "Resolved" (User error) posts archived to the bottom of the list.
3) could be done with a simple "vote" button. And automated. 2-3 confirmation "votes" of the issue could prioritize it's standing in the list in bold and make devs aware.
--------------

I do not not see a single reason why having bug reporting thread is an issue.