Jokes about "Dark Angel" and "Blackborg" surfaced almost immediately after Blackboard Inc. announced its plan to buy course-management software competitor Angel Learning, the author reports. Angel had lured away dozens of Blackboard clients in recent years with a friendly, approachable corporate culture that stood in sharp contrast to Blackboard's…

Describes how new technical standards are allowing colleges to customize distance-learning programs by blending online-learning software from several companies. (EV)

College faculty and students wishing to establish Internet connections are offered basic information on software selection for making direct connections, browsing the information services, and making indirect connections through on-line services. (MSE)

New computer software, developed to advance technological applications, may inadvertently reduce computer access of disabled users. Increasing graphical applications not usable by blind persons are creating concern. Advocates for persons with disabilities are urging software developers to alter existing programs and develop new ones with…