It is described as a user friendly, flexible, dynamic learning environment which requires no programming knowledge to operate. The components of Virtual-U are a group conferencing system, a course structuring tool which enables instructors to create complete courses online, a gradebook which manages the database of students' grades for each course, and system administration tools which assist system administrators in installation and maintenance. Learners electronically submit their assignments, and instructors organize and comment on submissions. ILN includes assessment and statistical tools as well as communication tools ranging from embedded discussion boards to virtual chat rooms. The Interactive Learning Network provides administrative options for online user registration and tracking.
Information is stored in a database providing powerful reporting features.
Assessment tools enable instructors to monitor a students progress within a course. The UT Physics Department provides a Web-based Homework Service for physics and math courses. This system is available 24 hours a day for homework and exams in introductory physics courses at any school with Internet access. Over 4,000 students are using the system in approximately 25 schools. Over 5,000 physics and 3,000 calculus problems are inventoried for your use.