Patent & Trademark Office Rejects Blackboard's Patent
Katherine Mangan of the Chronicle of higher Ed writes that
"The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has issued a preliminary decision that rejects all 44 claims Blackboard Inc. made regarding the controversial patent it was granted for an online-learning system. If upheld, the decision could have sweeping ramifications for Blackboard's competitors and universities that use course-management software.
"The "nonfinal" decision was made public on Friday, and both sides will have a chance to comment before a final order is issued. Blackboard can also appeal the final decision."
Contributed by Aaron Bowen