Wiley Signs Agreement to Purchase the Assets of Knewton

Acquisition will expand Wiley’s position in fast-growing affordable courseware market and add leading adaptive learning capabilities to enhance student outcomes

On May 6, 2019

Hoboken-based John Wiley & Sons, Inc., a leader in research and education, has signed an agreement to acquire the assets of Knewton, a provider of affordable courseware and adaptive learning technology for an undisclosed amount. The transaction is expected to close on or around May 31, subject to customary closing and regulatory conditions.

Headquartered in New York City, Knewton has developed an advanced learning system demonstrated to deliver highly personalized learning experiences that drive superior outcomes. The company’s Alta courseware platform delivers high quality, Open Educational Resource (OER) content to more than 300 colleges and universities, with course offerings in key subject areas, including math, chemistry and economics. The acquisition of the Alta platform, combined with Wiley’s reach, will accelerate Wiley’s position in the rapidly-growing, affordable courseware market.

“The Knewton team have long been pioneers in digital and data-driven learning and now they are leading the way in the delivery of powerful, affordable courseware,” said Brian Napack, president and CEO of Wiley. “The Alta platform’s proven ability to drive outcomes at affordable price points is right on target with what the market is demanding. We are truly thrilled to have the team join the Wiley family.”

Napack continued: “The demand has never been greater for courseware that addresses two critical needs in education – outcomes and affordability. The addition of Knewton’s technology capabilities and the Alta platform to Wiley’s portfolio of leading content, learning platforms, and business models enhances our position as a leader in the high-demand, career-focused markets where Wiley chooses to play. Further, it enhances Wiley’s position as the high-impact education partner for our unmatched network of university and corporate clients.”

Knewton’s products are built on unique adaptive learning technologies that are optimized to improve learning outcomes through enhanced teaching and learning experiences and the delivery of real-time personalized learning recommendations. The platform’s advanced algorithms deliver custom learning experiences to address the unique needs of each learner through instantaneous feedback, learning pathways, and expert resources.

“Wiley is a company that brings global scale, a legacy of integrity, and a commitment to lifelong learning, research, and innovation, and joining the Wiley family fulfills our vision to put achievement within reach for all,” said Brian Kibby, CEO of Knewton. “I’d like to thank our board for their guidance, our founder Jose Ferreira for his incredible vision, and most importantly, the talented and devoted group of Knerds at Knewton who helped us reach this point.”

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