The KIE environment includes a suite of software for student use. Structure for conducting project activities, making it clear what to do next and how to do it Support for browsing the World Wide Web, with pre-selected collections of scientific evidence accompanied by guidance on what to focus on and think about.
Students use the Netscape Navigator Web browser to access the Web materials.
Cognitive guidance from Mildred the Cow Guide, who is always available with hints on things to think about as students look at evidence. Mildred also allows note-taking on such topics as scientific content and credibility. Sensemaking support, with a tool called SenseMaker that allows students to organize evidence into a coherent scientific argument and encourages them to reflect on its credibility and relevance to the scientific discussion. Online conversations with classmates or students and scientists in other locations using SpeakEasy, a discussion tool that allows students to exchange and evaluate scientific ideas over the Net. For teachers, KIE also includes a Project Manager tool that provides an easy way to build new projects or tailor existing ones to meet particular classroom requirements.