She has named seven types of problem solving activity structures. Information searches involve students using the Internet and reference sources to solve a mystery or to answer a question. These activities can be collaborative or competitive and usually last a for short time. Peer feedback gives students the opportunity to respond to each others' ideas and work. Inventions is a Unit of Practice which includes an online conference for feedback.
Parallel problem solving invites students in several locations to solve problems at the same time.
In some cases, the same problem is presented using the same materials in the same time frame, then comparing solutions online. Sequential creations are collaborative projects in which students contribute to a common text or visual image, and then send it on to the next group for continued development. This Story use sequential creations. Another type of telepresent problem solving includes groups of students controlling remotely located robots to carry out an activity or solve a problem. The Orange County Marine Institute has a virtual field trip site where your students can control feeding machines and other tools remotely to interact with the marine life in the ocean.