Oxford University released news this week, that they are going to create the world’s first truly multidisciplinary institute for the purpose of research and recommendations about the effects of the Internet on Society, putting Oxford, the UK and Europe at the centre of debates about how the Internet could and should develop.

The cause is to be funded by The Shirley Foundation of £10 million (partly to the University), and £5 million from the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCC).

Full details on this story, plus video clips can be found at Oxford University Press Office.

TrainingZONE says: This story has worldwide significant implications for the UK, in relation to its use and knowledge of the Internet. For some reason we seem to have been lagging behind in this vital global medium. The Government having recognised this fact instigated their Online Learning campaign, details of which can be found at DfEE Adult Gateway, as a remedial tactic, in trying to ensure that all UK residents had easy access to gaining IT and Internet knowledge. If we are to stay high in the global marketing league, mastering the Internet is crucial. It would seem reasonable to anticipate that the Institute will become a recognised, leading world authority on the Internet medium.

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