The Virtual Learning Commons (VLC) is a web-based environment that combines a content management system, a set of academic support tools, and a social networking environment. The administrative functions of the VLC include the ability to manage all aspects of the site, including the creation of communities, content pages, navigation headings, content maps, configuration of tools, user accounts, user profiles and social networking topics and comments. Users of the site can add personal profile information, select avatars, generate topics of conversation (to do’s), create lists of to do items and personal contact lists.

Version 1.0 of the software is currently being used in an academic setting at the University of Manitoba (UM) - http://www.umanitoba.ca/virtuallearningcommons/.

The UM installation is organized into three separate communities - undergraduate, graduate and international. Within each community, a number of headings and content pages - which can include text, images, animations, audio, video - provide resources.

In addition to providing learning resources, the Virtual Learning Commons also provides a number of tools designed to help students successfully complete their studies.

The Assignment Manager provides a step-by-step guide to a number of common tasks that a student might encounter, including writing a term paper, preparing for an exam, or making a presentation. Based on a start and completion date, the Assignment Manager designs a schedule to meet each step in the process of completing that task and provides resources to aid in the completion of each step.

The Online Writing Tutor allows students to submit a sample of a writing difficulty or writing problem and have a tutor hired by the Learning Assistance Centre provide feedback or advice.

A calendar aggregates all Assignment Manager schedules and workshop registrations. The calendar is exportable to PDA's, Outlook, or any calendaring system that imports iCal data.

The social networking component of the Virtual Learning Commons provides users of the site opportunities to connect with each other, and form social networks and communities of practice. This aspect of the site forms the central navigational metaphor for the site.

The VLC was designed and developed by the Learning Technologies Centre at the University of Manitoba. Content for the UM installation has been provided various units of the university including the Learning Assistance Centre, Student Advocacy, the Faculty of Graduate Studies, Information Services and Technology, and the Libraries.