CSILE was considered the first networked system designed for collaborative learning (Carl Bereiter webpage).
In 1995, the software was redesigned in accordance to World Wide Web philosophy by OISE in cooperation with Learning in Motion.
Knowledge Forum is an asynchronous Computer-mediated communication (CMC) technology that provides a shared discourse environment.
It facilitates collaborative knowledge-building strategies, textual and graphical representation of ideas, and reorganization of knowledge artifacts.
Some features (such as grade book, live chat, student information, and the integration into a larger network of users) are not implemented.
The software helps students in their effort to acquire new meaning and nurture knowledge building communities.
Knowledge Forum can be used in different areas such as: According to Bereiter and Scardamalia (2003) "a comprehensive knowledge building environment would provide a means of initiating students into a knowledge-creating culture—to make them feel a part of humankind’s long-term effort to understand their world and gain some control over their destiny" (p. 18).