BBC, Microsoft sign digital curriculum contract

LONDON: Following a competitive tender, the BBC and software major Microsoft have signed a contract. As per this Bill Gates’ conglomerate will develop the technology to deliver the BBC’s Digital Curriculum. This will launch in 2006 after extensive research and piloting.
An official release informs that the two companies will work together to build the infrastructure that will deliver high quality video, audio and interactive content over the web. The decision to contract with Microsoft was reached following a competitive tender. The original tender was advertised in the Official Journal of the European Community (OJEC). Microsoft won the contract because it had the right mix of technological skills, value for money and committment to education.
The release adds that BBC’s Digital Curriculum will be free and accessible to all pupils, teachers and parents online in the classroom, at home and at venues throughout the UK. The Digital Curriculum will contribute to the Government’s Curriculum Online initiative and will assist in promoting e-learning inside and outside the classroom. Working with partners across the industry, the service will offer material on a range of subjects. Half of all the content will be commissioned from external producers.