Microsoft Partners in Learning (PiL) is a global ICT initiative to which Microsoft has committed US$253 million. The underlying rationale for the PiL project, as outlined by Microsoft, is expanding access to digital opportunities. In Australia, Microsoft has committed more than $10 million in cash and resources over the next five years (see http://www.microsoft.com/australia/education/pil/).

By investing in a series of programs and investing in software, ICT training and professional development, Microsoft is offering incentives for state/territory departments of education to further invest in elearning, and offering teachers who act as technology and educational change agents at their schools recognition and involvement in global PiL events.

The Microsoft Australia PiL Project has contracted RMIT University in collaboration with Victoria University to conduct a national evaluation study of the PiL projects being conducted by the Australian state/territory departments of education.

Researchers: Prof. Mary Kalantzis, Prof. Nicola Yelland (Victoria University) and Dr Helen Smith.

Email Address
rachael dunstan at rmit edu au