News Corp. (NWS, NWSA) is partnering with wireless carrier AT&T Inc. (T) to launch an education business called Amplify, which will develop digital learning materials, tools and systems for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. News Corp. has long talked about investing in the education business and hired Joel Klein, the former New York City schools chancellor, last year to lead the company's push into academics. News Corp. owns Dow Jones & Co., publisher of this newswire and The Wall Street Journal. The company has said the education assets would be part of the publishing business after News Corp.'s expected split. The Amplify products and services include interactive, gamelike learning platforms for students as well as analytical and assessment tools for teachers. "It is our aim to amplify the power of digital innovation to transform teaching and learning, and to help schools deliver fundamentally better experiences and results," said Mr. Klein, who is chief executive of Amplify. Amplify plans to begin introducing new products in the 2012-13 school year. During an initial pilot phase, AT&T plans to provide tablets, device management and technical services for the business, which will use the carrier's Wi-Fi and 4G networks. "We plan to bring to market a 4G mobile tablet-based experience that we believe will significantly enhance teaching and learning for grades K-12," said Ralph de la Vega, president and chief executive of AT&T Mobility. News Corp.'s previous investments in the education sector include Wireless Generation, a provider of software, data systems and other tools to help teachers assess students' needs. In addition, Chief Executive Rupert Murdoch has spoken about the need to improve education in the U.S. Sunday, Mr. Murdoch hinted at Monday's announcement through Twitter. "Only way to restore American dream and have real meritocracy is fix terrible public K-12 education. Amplify Education statement tomorrow," Mr. Murdoch tweeted. Write to William Launder at william.launder@dowjones.com Subscribe to WSJ: http://online.wsj.com?mod=djnwires
