Microsoft Corp co-founder Paul Allen is giving a $500,000 grant to help Oxford University develop a new system of continuing education over the internet. A new learning system, based on a large number of small 15-minute components, is being developed. After analyzing each studentÆs needs and current level of knowledge, a personalized course will be constructed from the database of learning components. Software engineering is among the courses under consideration but the university is conducting market research to find the most suitable subjects. Financial support comes from the Paul Allen Virtual Education Foundation, founded in 1987 to support innovative programs in online education.
