Integrating Cutting-edge Research into Learning through Web 2.0 and Virtual Environments

In this paper, we report on the initial design and implementation of a project entitled RE@L Research Environments Associated with Learning through Social Networks. Our goal is to examine how future science gateways that rely on immersive virtual environments and Web 2.0 technologies can bridge the gap between research and education. To this end, we strategically apply middleware technologies in such a way that it provides students at all levels with an unprecedented level of interactivity and access to cyberinfrastructure resources, educational tools, and social support structures. Our goal is to utilize middleware tools such that research and education are presented to students within the context of their daily lives, their technology choices, and their lifestyles – yet in pedagogically sound ways. This we implement by integrating current generation of middleware in the context of social networks and by applying middleware technologies for engineering the educational experience.