The New York Times has a wealth of information and resources that would be an asset to almost any online course. But, until now teachers have had to select Times' articles a la carte and pay a fee for each article included in course content.

This week Inside Higher Ed reports that the Times will be working with several colleges to provide content and other resources for online classes. Here's a blurb:

"In distance education, the Times will be providing technology and marketing for non-credit courses taught by college and university professors. Funds from tuition revenue will be split (with the precise formula varying) between the colleges and the Times. Among the institutions that are already part of the effort are Mount Holyoke College; New York, Northern Kentucky, Stanford and Towson Universities; and the Society for College and University Planning. Felice Nudelman, director of education for the Times, said that the list would soon grow significantly. She said that the emphasis would be on having a range of institutions and a range of high quality programs. Tuition rates are set by the colleges - in some cases with in-state and out-of-state rates."

It looks like a unique and exciting this venture. I'm always a little concerned when for-profit companies partner with universities to help shape instruction. However, I look forward to seeing how the New York Times courses turn out.