The application follows the earlier release of Blackboard’s integration for the Facebook platform, which enables users to access academic information within the Facebook interface and opens the door to social learning and networking opportunities.

Like its Facebook integration, Blackboard Learn for the iPhone and iPod touch is open to users at any of the thousands of K-12, higher education, and professional, corporate and government organizations that work with Blackboard.

“Many of today’s students and learners live in a mobile world, and now they can learn in one too,” said Michael L. Chasen, Blackboard president and CEO.

“The application is great for quickly checking Blackboard on the go, and it helps me be more engaged and organized even if I’m away from campus,” said Nate Schumacher, a freshman at Grand Rapids Community College in Michigan who participated in the beta program for the application. “With Blackboard on my iPod touch, I’m checking more often for new grades and updates the same way I check my email.”

The iPhone application is available as a download from the Apple iTunes App Store.