Some Definitions and Technology Notes
Asynchronous = Access to common Web and Database Information sources + simple tools (email, calendar)
Synchronous = Real time/Interactive sharing of information that can also be accessed asynchronously
An “object” is a “foil” or “screenful” -- natural unit of information that fits both computer screen and goal of focussed nuggets of knowledge
Use Conventional Web Servers and databases (a.k.a object brokers) as information sources
Server-side enhancements (Collaboration server, XML Curricula object processor) written in Java
Client Side enhancements are a mix of Java applets (GUI), Java Applications (curriculum manager) and JavaScript (control web pages)
Can collaborate with server or client side shared applications