Partners Sought for IBM SchoolVista
A new opportunity from IBM, the SchoolVista Partners in Development (PID) program is for K-12 educational software developers. Enlisting during 1996 will waive the membership fee. SchoolVista is IBM's front end for classroom networks featuring a graphical interface for teachers and students, and the ability to integrate a variety of electronic resources directly into lessons and activities. Other functions include e-mail, school announcements, storage of teacher's notes and student portfolios, and easy access to printers. Under the PID, developers receive access to the latest IBM technical information and program services to help them integrate their products into the SchoolVista environment. At least a dozen publishers, such as SkillsBank and MECC, are already involved.
Three levels of product compatibility have been designated: SchoolVista Compatible!, SchoolVista Ready! and SchoolVista Integrated! PID membership benefits include ability to access a password-protected Web site, which will contain technical data, APIs, development tools, graphics library and more. One also gets a free license for a 10-user version of SchoolVista 2.0, testing of Integrated! applications and special workshops (both free for 1996) and a quarterly newsletter. Developers should call (800) 627-8363. Schools interested in SchoolVista should contact IBM K-12 directly. IBM K-12 Education, Atlanta, GA, (800) IBM-4EDU, http://www.solutions.ibm.com/k12.