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Tim O'Reilly posted his Web 2.0 Meme Map and it got me thinking about where our group at Wharton fits into the map, and more generally, where learning simulations fit into it.

With Flex, we are really able to make the most of the Web as a platform and create simulations that are perfect examples of Web 2.0. We can easily build applications with desktop like functionality and user interface, but with the scalability and ubiquitous nature of the web. With the learning simulations we build, we need the experience to be flawless so students can focus all of their energy on learning, and not on figuring out how to use the application. With Flex we can make a great UI and spend most of our development time perfecting the educational value.

The thing that most excites me about Web 2.0 and learning simulations is that with Web 2.0 is going to come a culture of software as a service. We will be able to deliver the power of desktop applications to users anywhere in the world. All of Wharton's e-learning and distance learning initiatives will be able to make use of the applications we build. And as more and more people accept the philosophy of Web 2.0, they'll feel empowered to give instant feedback and expect quick enhancements. We can build an app, constantly make it better, and deliver those updates instantly.

We’ve always been ahead of the curve, and the Learning Lab has been creating Web 2.0 applications for a long time. The big difference is that now Flex has given us the ability to present our apps with the look, feel and robustness of normal desktop applications. This has enhanced the usability and gotten people away from thinking of the simulations as a website based game to a rich learning experience.

Learning simulations are going to fall under rich user experiences on the map, but they will also take advantage of the user as a contributor. That means everybody wins.

Commentary on the map can be found here and here.