IBM Grants to Extend Entertainment Chip to Higher Ed

IBM picked 10 universities around the world to receive its “Shared University Research” (SUR) awards to extend is consumer electronics-based Cell Broadband Engine (Cell BE) processor technology to education applications.

According to IBM, Cell BE enhances the performance of computer entertainment and handhelds, virtual-reality, wireless downloads, real-time video chat, interactive TV shows, and other “image-hungry” computing environments, such as Sony’s PlayStation 3 console.

IBM said the SUR awards would drive the use of Cell BE among students and faculty in creating digital media, software platform performance and medical imaging solutions. Schools targeted for the awards include Georgia Tech, which is researching high performance computing, gaming, and digital content applications on Cell BE technology, and the University of California San Diego, which is using Cell BE to explore how to make game environments a part of a user’s real-time interactive experience.

The other schools involved in the project include the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the University of Minnesota, the University of Virginia, and the University of Washington...

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Berklee Deal Offers Web-based Music to Underserved

The Berklee College of Music has launched a partnership with community organizations nationwide to deliver music instruction to underserved young people across the U.S. In originating the City Music Network, Boston-based Berklee said it would combine Web-based and real-time music education programs to students regardless of their financial means or location. Students who complete the required coursework could audition for scholarships to Berklee’s for five-week summer programs and undergraduate study.

Apple Computer Inc. will serve as a technology partner, providing servers and access to iTunes University. Berklee will also partner with members of NAMM, the International Music Products Association, to provide City Music Network students with musical instruments and equipment. Specially trained alumni teachers and its Web-based curriculum of learning and community building tools will give the school national control over its quality, Berklee officials said...

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