Microsoft Chooses New Brunswick for Canadian Test Site of Global Computer-Assisted Education Network

Strategic Insights -

Microsoft, the world's leading software company, has selected New Brunswick as the Canadian testing ground for its ambitious plan to create a worldwide education and training network. The province's advanced telecommunications system and strong support for computer-assisted education made it an ideal choice for the project. This cutting-edge initiative aims to provide students with access to elementary and high-school courses via computer linkup, starting from kindergarten to Grade 12.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Microsoft project will test its planned worldwide system of computer-assisted education in New Brunswick, with the goal of expanding to over 40 countries and 12 languages.
  • The network will offer approved courses from kindergarten to Grade 12, accessible through school computer centers, libraries, or at home.
  • Microsoft will provide the network infrastructure and some computer training, while the New Brunswick Education Department will approve the courses.
  • The network can be extended to training schools accredited by the New Brunswick government.
  • Frank Clegg, Microsoft Canada's general manager, and New Brunswick Premier Frank McKenna will outline the project's details in a news conference in Moncton today.
  • Microsoft spokeswoman Mia Pearson stated that the project is a "practical implementation of the information highway."

Statistics:

  • The project aims to operate in more than 40 countries.
  • The network will be available in 12 languages.
  • The system will cover education and training from kindergarten to Grade 12.
  • Microsoft will provide the network infrastructure.
  • The New Brunswick Education Department will approve the courses.
  • The project has chosen New Brunswick as the Canadian test site due to its advanced telecommunications system and support for computer-assisted education.

Sources:

  • Canadian Press
  • Microsoft Corp.
  • Frank Clegg, Microsoft Canada's general manager
  • New Brunswick Premier Frank McKenna
  • Microsoft spokeswoman Mia Pearson
  • The Redmond, Washington-based software giant (Microsoft)