The Microsoft Learning Gateway (MLG) consists of many products from Microsoft from Windows Operating Systems to the Office System. SharePoint is a product that is required to make up the MLG but other products that can be added, these are not necessary to make up your MLG.
What does Microsoft say on the Learning Gateway?
“The Learning Gateway from Microsoft is a solutions framework that helps improve education by integrating the tools you already use and putting them to work connecting people with the information and processes they need to teach and learn more effectively. “
It’s all about using Microsoft technology in teaching and learning. How it is used depends on the school/college/university and the processes within the school.
What products does it include?
Well it could be any of the Microsoft products – it depends on how you use it in teaching and learning. SharePoint is the main product as it can deliver content to the pupil through a web page but here is a possible list. Learning Gateway Version 3 includes the below list but you can use previous versions as they can be integrated as well.
· Windows 2003 Server
o All products are installed on the latest Windows Server technology
o www.microsoft.com/windows2003/
· Active Directory
o AD is used as the log on service for all users
o www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/technologies/directory/activedirectory/
· SQL Server 2005
o The database server used for SharePoint, SharePoint Learning Kit as well as other products
o www.microsoft.com/sqlserver/
· Exchange 2007
o Email Service for all pupils/staff
o www.microsoft.com/exchange
· Office Communications Server 2007
o Instant messaging including voice and webcam services
o office.microsoft.com/en-us/communicationsserver/
· SharePoint 2007
o Main delivery point of content through a web page
o www.microsoft.com/sharepoint/
· SharePoint Learning Kit
o Microsofts Virtual Learning Environment solution
o www.codeplex.com/slk
· Internet Accelerator and Security 2006
o Firewall protection
o www.microsoft.com/isa
· Microsoft Learning Gateway Web Parts/Templates for SharePoint 2007
o www.codeplex.com/lg
Client Software
You can use previous version but for full functionality for the above products you need.
· Windows XP/Vista
o Client OS
o www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/
o www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/
· Office 2007
o Microsoft Office system including, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook (not necessary for Exchange 2007), Publisher, Access, InfoPath, Groove, OneNote.
· Internet Explorer 7.0
The extent of the Microsoft Learning Gateway is never ending.
I would like to blog somewhere else for the Microsoft Learning Gateway as it is more than just sharepoint. Can anyone recommend anywhere?
You thoughts and views are always welcome.