She is considered one of the pioneers in computer-supported collaborative learning.
Other areas of research where Scardamalia made contributions are: Since the 1980s she supervised the design, development and research of Computer Supported Intentional Learning Environments (CSILE).
The new version of CSILE was renamed Knowledge Forum and has been used in educational technology since 1996.
From 1996 to 2002, she was the K-12 theme leader for Canada's TeleLearning Network of Centres of Excellence.
She is also one of the founders and main researchers of the Institute for Knowledge Innovation and Technology (IKIT).