Thomson Learning seeks international e-learning markets with Universitas 21 joint venture

Internet Strategies for Education Markets: The Heller Report, Dec, 2000

Thomson Learning (Stamford, Ct, www.thomsonlearning.com) has partnered with Universitas 21 (www.universitas.edu.au) to develop a global e-university. Universitas 21 has previously operated as an international academic consortium with 18 highly regarded institutions. In partnership with Thomson, it will now develop online higher education and advanced training courses, delivery platforms and an international quality assurance structure.

Bob Cullen, ceo of Thomson Learning's international division, tells ISEM that details of the plan have not been addressed. He will say that Thomson regards e-learning outside of North America as a tremendous opportunity. He adds that he regards this as a scalable joint venture that merits investment in creating a third-generation platform with features such as wireless capabilities.

WebCT may be a component of that platform, but again, the agreement does not yet include specifics. Thomson invested in WebCT last September. Additional funding from Munder NetNet Fund and SCT brings WebCT's recent round of funding to $70 million.