Initial experiences of ALAN-K: an Advanced LeArning Network in Kyoto

This paper describes the start-up phase of the ALAN-K (Advanced LeArning Network in Kyoto) project, which is part of a major effort to create new learning environments for elementary, junior high and high school students in Kyoto, Japan. Our visions of digitally fluent and creative citizens are largely influenced by the visions, ideas, and experiences of Alan Kay and his colleagues. We view the Squeak system (Ingalls et al., 1997; Guzdial and Rose, 2002) as powerful learning tools and media for enabling both active independent learning and collaboration. A series of Squeak workshops were designed and conducted at two elementary schools, which will be the basis for designing further activities.