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PLATO Learning Releases New Science Curricula Addressing Standards Requirements

Posted on: Tuesday, 14 September 2004, 06:00 CDT

MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- PLATO Learning, Inc. , a leading provider of K-adult computer-based and e-learning solutions, today announced it has released two new science products -- PLATO(R) Physical Science and PLATO(R) Multimedia Science Simulations.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20020917/PLATOLOGO )

"With new science standards and testing requirements in science beginning in 2007, it is important that educators have resources and tools that help students master the objectives assessed on high-stakes exams. PLATO Physical Science and PLATO Multimedia Science Simulations were developed to give educators an advantage in addressing standards-based science requirements and helping their students develop an appreciation for scientific discovery. Students benefit from this comprehensive curriculum that offers preparation for standards-based exams and more time for inquiry learning," said John Murray, Chairman, President, and CEO of PLATO Learning.

PLATO Physical Science is an innovative, standards-based curriculum that utilizes sophisticated computer animation and multimedia instruction to address scientific concepts at the middle school level. It was developed for use as a self-study tool in classroom or credit recovery programs, in teacher presentations to introduce concepts, for test review, as a supplement to GED instruction, or to complement textbook lessons.

Each lesson is aligned to state standards and the guidelines set by the National Science Foundation, the Mid-Continent Research for Education and Learning (MCREL) lab and the AAAS Project 2061. The curriculum also features a sophisticated test item bank linking exam questions to specific standards- based objectives for pretesting and mastery assessments.

PLATO Physical Science is the second release in the PLATO Middle School Science Series. PLATO(R) Life Science was released in 2003, and PLATO(R) Earth and Space Science is scheduled to be released in 2005. All three courses will be available through LAN and Internet delivery.

PLATO Multimedia Science Simulations, with levels for both intermediate and advanced instruction, were originally developed by New Media, a UK company acquired by PLATO Learning in December 2003. "In the UK, Multimedia Science Simulations received numerous awards and are currently used in over 70 percent of high schools. We are excited to bring this science offering to our U.S. customers at a time when science is an area of focus for all of our schools," said Mr. Murray.

The interactive multimedia simulations bring invisible and industrial concepts to life ensuring a positive teaching and learning experience. This product also provides an alternative to in-class lab experiments that can be costly, unpredictable, and time consuming -- allowing teachers to expand the scientific concepts they can expose students to.

About PLATO Learning, Inc.

PLATO Learning is a leading provider of computer-based and e-learning instruction for kindergarten through adult learners, offering curricula in reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies, and life and job skills. The company also offers innovative online assessment and accountability solutions and standards-based professional development services. With over 6,000 hours of objective-based, problem-solving courseware, plus assessment, alignment, and curriculum management tools, we create standards-based curricula that facilitate learning and school improvement.

With trailing 12-month revenues of approximately $126 million, PLATO Learning is a publicly held company traded as TUTR on the NASDAQ. PLATO Learning educational software, delivered via networks, CD-ROM, the Internet, and private intranets, is primarily marketed to K-12 schools and colleges. The Company also sells to job training programs, correctional institutions, military education programs, corporations, and individuals.

PLATO Learning is headquartered at 10801 Nesbitt Avenue South, Bloomington, Minnesota 55437, 952.832.1000 or 800.869.2000. The Company has offices throughout the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, as well as international distributors in Puerto Rico, Singapore, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. For more information, please visit http://www.plato.com/ .

This announcement includes forward-looking statements. PLATO Learning has based these forward-looking statements on its current expectations and projections about future events. Although PLATO Learning believes that its assumptions made in connection with the forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurances can be given that its assumptions and expectations will prove to have been correct. These forward-looking statements are subject to various risks, uncertainties and assumptions. PLATO Learning undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Any forward looking statements made are subject to the risks and uncertainties as those described in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2002. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

PLATO(R) is a registered trademark of PLATO Learning, Inc. PLATO Learning is a trademark of PLATO Learning, Inc.

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20020917/PLATOLOGOAP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/PRN Photo Desk, +1-888-776-6555 or +1-212-782-2840

PLATO Learning, Inc.

CONTACT: John Murray, Chairman, President & CEO, Greg Melsen, CFO, orTerri Reden, Communications Director, all of PLATO Learning, Inc.,+1-952-832-1000

Web site: http://www.plato.com/

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