Learning in the New Millennium Phase One: What made this project unique?

This on-line environment was based on customised communication software for email and conferencing and used the world wide web (it began in the very early 'pre-Mosaic' days of the web) as an information resource. The environment emphasised parity of esteem and attempted to remove some of the the hierarchal communications structures present in organisations and institutions, for example in face to face communications.

The combination of the following made this project unique:

Research
It is a longitudinal project and we have had a full time researcher following the project throughout its life (and into phase 2). The result is that we have captured a vast amount of data and can offer conclusions with some confidence.

Range of those involved - crossed age, gender and ethnic boundaries
This project covered pupils aged 8 to 18, adults from a variety of disciples in academic institutions and scientists and engineers in Nortel.

Parity of esteem
All members of the community were equal partners. Their comments were valued by each other regardless of age, sex or role.

Learning was free ranging
The project started with an expectation of enhancing broad science and technology learning objectives, but it was not limited by a tight national curriculum focus. In practice learning was very broad and emphasised the value of learning in the workplace, community and the family too.

Sense of community and ownership
Those involved developed their own rules and regulations. They developed a powerful and genuine sense of community within which they valued the contributions and friendships of others.

Identity
Every individual had their own identity (including email), and existed in the community as a person in their own right with editorial and contributory opportunities. This really mattered.

Participation and collaboration
Because this was truly a community members were very active in the system working together to develop and refine work, continually revisiting discussions in the light of new knowledge or information.