AXL: WEB 2.0 EXTENSION (2007)

The FORCE project and the AXL project worked together to extend the AXLNet experience with additional functionality based on Web 2.0 practices. We created a new question type that can be integrated into new or existing AXLNet modules. The new question type allows the author to reference a previous multiple choice question and then asks the student taking the course to respond in short answer form to statistics gathered from the collective answers of all other students to that previous question. This allows the course to reference live user data and gives the student a sense of how his or her answer compares to those of the rest of the students.

For example, an existing AXL question could ask a student which element in the case study needs to be resolved with the greatest urgency. The student answers the question and moves on with the module. Later, a question of the new type references the answer that the student gave earlier, and notes that only 20% of the students who are currently taking the course answered the same way. It then asks the student to justify his or her decision in light of this, or to consider the alternatives that other students chose.

SURVEY OF COMMERCIAL WEBSITES (2007 - 2008)

In an attempt to better understand the extent and significance of the web used as an application platform, we conducted a survey of established, popular, and upcoming websites. We attempted to include sites that were representative of common Web 2.0 themes such as content sharing, data aggregation, and social networking. We compiled our finding in a spreadsheet, comparing to what extent and how, specifically, each website incorporates Web 2.0 technologies and practices and other features of web based applications.

Our first chart, designed for our customizable viewer, can be accessed here.

Our second chart rates sites based on their effectiveness in a range of categories. It can be accessed here.

WEB PRACTICES SURVEY (2008)

After determining common themes in the form and function of Web 2.0 sites, we designed a comprehensive survey to determine the relative effectiveness and desirability of different web features. This study provides data from which optimal site features can be determined for different types of web services, such as social network and content sharing sites. To date, we have received over 500 unique responses to the Web Practices Survey, providing a robust set of statistical data for the development of future websites.

Click here to participate in the Web Practices Survey.

ADDITIONAL RESEARCH

We have conducted additional research into common Web 2.0 technologies and practices, including programming with Asynchronous JavaScript and XML, content sharing, user-generated content, community-vetted information, collective organization practices, communities of practice, social networking paradigms, the separation of form and content, and personalization. Our research into these areas will be put to use in our Taxonomy of the Web, which is currently in development and will be part of our continuing work in this field.