IBM unveils academic cloud

IBM plans to make several parts of its extensive software portfolio available in a cloud computing environment as part of an effort to help professors around the world to incorporate technology into their curricula, reports Datamation.

Company officials say IBM worked with more than 200 academic and technology leaders to figure out the best ways to integrate IT learning into all aspects of a college education, which they hope will improve students' overall aptitude for information management, business analytics, digitised records and green technologies.

The resulting Academic Skills Cloud is free and gives colleges and universities the added benefit of not having to pay for any of the infrastructure required in the past to offer a suite of business intelligence and IT management applications.

E-learning software maker SkillSoft has agreed to be acquired by a consortium of private-equity firms for about $1.1 billion, an offer that investors think undervalues the company, states Reuters.

The cash offer of $10.80 per share, made by funds owned by Berkshire Partners, Advent International and Bain Capital, was 11% more than SkillSoft's recent closing price.

However, American depositary shares of the company edged past the offer to as high as $11.21, or up 15%, indicating that investors might be expecting a better offer.

Application developer Oceanhouse Media has unveiled three iPhone Apps based on Dr Seuss children's stories, says The Independent.

Two interactive books plus a photo application can be used on the iPhone and iPad touch and will also be available for the iPad.

The apps include the books' original artwork plus special features such as highlighted picture/word associations, professional narrations, and background audio.