I reported in my weblog around mid-March the kerfuffle generated when the fast-food chain McDonalds offered its online maths tutoring program free to students. Is McDonald’s simply being a good corporate citizen by supporting education, or is the company seeking to promote its products? Make up your own mind. There’s an article  in Australian Food News that summarises the issues:

McDonald’s Australia is offering a free maths program to more than 1.4 million students nationwide in a move that has divided opinion.  The world’s largest fast-food chain suggests that the program, which normally costs $40 per month but will now be offered free, is about helping the community rather than promoting their products……

Students will be informed that it is “proudly provided by your local McDonald’s restaurant” upon opening the program, but there are no other links to the company once they begin the tutorial. The company has the support of Federal Education Minister Julia Gillard and the Australian Secondary Principals’ Association, but NSW State Opposition education spokesman Adrian Piccoli was cynical of the move….

The New South Wales Parents and Citizens Federation is also skeptical, accusing McDonald’s of “subliminal advertising in the greatest form” on ABC radio.

For the full article go to: http://www.ausfoodnews.com.au/2009/03/20/mixed-response-to-foray-into-maths-curriculum-by-mcdonalds.html

Check out the online maths tutoring package yourself at: http://www.mathsonline.com.au/