Continuing its transition from trade book publishing to a focus on professional development, John Wiley is teaming with the American Graphics Institute, a firm offering web development, design and graphics training, to launch the Digital Classroom, an online educational resource offering a comprehensive library of video training and e-book reference works. The new online learning venture is a subscription service offering more than 2,500 video tutorials and 50 e-books on web and app development, design and graphic design technique.
The Digital Classroom offers subscription access a library of resource materials, including videos and learning tutorials that allow consumers to, in effect, teach themselves and do it on their own schedule. Much like iTunes U, Apple’s online library of digital learning and classes, and similar online learning initiatives by major universities, The Digital Classroom follows the growing trend of offering DIY learning platforms.
Christopher Smith, president of American Graphics Institute, said, whether a consumer is looking for serious training or just curious about technology, “everyone now has affordable access to a comprehensive e-learning environment including video tutorials, digital books and discussion groups with our educators.”
The Digital Classroom is a subscription service and an introductory monthly membership costs $20 per month or annual one-year membership is available for $10 per month. Membership gives consumers access to 24/7 content on mobile devices and laptops, thousands of videos and e-books on a wide variety of photography, graphic arts and web development subject matter. The service also offers group rates for the Digital Classroom and features that include classes with private forums, invited participants, customized content and designated instructions.
Barry Pruett, v-p and executive publisher of Wiley's professional development group, said, “people want to learn on their own terms and with DigitalClassroom.com, users can see step-by-step lessons and participate in e-learning courses from their desktop, laptop, tablet or mobile device.”
