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CORAL(CoOperative
Remote Access Learning) system, a WWW-based distant and cooperative learning system, was
originally developed with a single-server architecture. Currently some organizations and
schools may own self CORAL servers to provide the distance learning for their employees
and students. However, the original design of the single-server architecture cause no
linkages between these CORAL servers, and result in the narrow learning environment; i.e.,
fewer course materials and fewer learning partners. In
this paper, we present a multi-server tight-coupled CORAL*
system. In order to deploy CORAL across multiple organizations and schools, we develop
multi-server and user management procedures and extend single-server communication
channels to multi-server communication channels in our CORAL* system,. In
addition, we add four new functions into this system: the guided navigation system, the
mail system, the audio system and the learning activities query system. Currently the
system provides an environment for (1) users to access remote class materials, find
learning partners, and conduct cooperative learning; (2) instructors to monitor and study
learning activities; (3) managers to operate and maintain their local servers
independently. |