Introduction to the Shadow netWorkspace™

Abstract

Shadow netWorkspace™ (SNS) is a web-based CSCL environment designed and developed specifically to support schools and learning. SNS has been designed to facilitate the implementation of a learning community, wherein members (teachers, students, parents, etc.) have tools for representing, organizing, sharing and collaborating on their thoughts and efforts. The SNS environment may be installed locally for the learning community whether that is a school building, school district or consortium of teachers or schools collaborating on implementing a cross schools project. SNS is being provided for free, has an Application Programming Interface (API) so others can develop applications for it, and is open source so that everyone can participate in enhancing and supporting it. SNS includes tools such as secure login, well-defined user roles and group types, file system, calendar & task manager, chat & discussion boards, notes & document creator, and homework notification. The system's strength and potential for longevity lie in its Open Source (GNU Public License) development model, object and process oriented operating environment, and a robust application programming interface (API). Many schools (internationally) have downloaded SNS for trials and a number are currently engaged in pilot programs.