If the computer and web browser you are using now to read this has a working telnet program affixed to the browser as a helper application, you can telnet to Diversity University MOO at moo.du.org 8888 . Resources Telnet, of course, has its problems as a MOO software client, but there are many, many clients available which work well with MOOs. Yet another site, emphasizing MOO usage in Composition is the Composition in Cyberspace web page. I don't know if your students are using this little new program from AOL and Netscape, but the Instant Messenger has taken our campus by storm. In Joan's presentation, she demonstrates one of the many web page-based instant chat rooms that are available through Xoomchat .
Many similar programs are available.
Synchronous chat rooms are also included as components of total course software packages like CourseInfo by Blackboard. In addition to this package's ability to offer professors and students non-synchronous threaded discussions, it also offers a Virtual Chat room, with a shared whiteboard, so students can come together for collaborative discussions and brainstorming. Last updated, June 10, 1999.