New York, New York (PRWEB) August 11, 2016
Today, Pearson announced its partnership with Kentucky State University (KSU) to launch Digital Direct Access, an industry leading model which digitally delivers high-quality course materials to students. The significant cost savings of this program has enabled KSU to announce that every student will receive a scholarship covering the full cost of digital course materials, beginning in the fall 2016 semester.
KSU will join 55 institutions that have partnered with Pearson in 2016 to provide college-wide, direct access to high-quality digital course materials for their students. In addition to savings of up to 60 percent, Digital Direct Access provides learners with critical access to course materials on the first day of class and offers instructors insights into students’ learning activity through data analysis. KSU’s Digital Direct Access initiative will also provide 24/7/365 technical helpdesk support and award-winning Smarthinking online tutoring services.
“Some traditional textbooks can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 apiece. And the fact is, some students simply cannot afford to buy all the textbooks required for their course load,” said Aaron Thompson, Ph.D., interim president, Kentucky State University. “We want our students to be successful, and numerous studies have shown that if students do not have their books during the first few days of school, their success rate is seriously diminished.”
“We want to ensure that all our students have equitable access to required course materials the very first day they walk into the classroom,” said Candice Jackson, Ph.D., acting vice president for Academic Affairs, Kentucky State University. “If a student does not own a computer, not to worry. Students can choose to rent a computer for a small use fee, or the university offers free computer at convenient locations all over campus which includes, dorms, computer labs and the library.”
“Pearson is honored to partner with Kentucky State University to enable them to provide all students with free access to required course materials by the first day of class,” said Tom Malek, senior vice president of partnerships, Pearson. “KSU’s groundbreaking, student-centered strategy demonstrates a growing trend toward improving student performance and making higher education more accessible and affordable.”
KSU has a continued mission to make college education more affordable for learners. More than 1,700 students will benefit from the institution’s digital course delivery model each semester.
About Pearson
Pearson is the world’s learning company, with expertise in educational courseware and assessment, and a range of teaching and learning services powered by technology. Our mission is to help people make progress through access to better learning. We believe that learning opens up opportunities, creating fulfilling careers and better lives. For more, visit http://www.Pearsoned.com.
About Kentucky State University
Kentucky State University, building on its legacy of achievement as a historically black, liberal arts, and 1890 Land Grant University, affords access to and prepares a diverse population of traditional and non-traditional students to compete in a multifaceted, ever changing global society by providing student-centered learning while integrating teaching, research and service through high-quality undergraduate and select graduate programs. Located in Frankfort, Kentucky, KSU offers associate (two-year) degrees in three disciplines, baccalaureate (four-year) degrees in 24 disciplines, and master’s degrees in five disciplines. KSU has 129 full-time instructional faculty members and more than 1,700 students.
Media Contacts:
Scott Overland, scott.overland(at)pearson(dot)com, 202-909-4520
Diane Hawkins, diane.hawkins(at)kysu(dot)edu, 502-597-6286