However, because it is a public site, it does NOT offer some of the features that a controlled access site built with an instructional managment software like WebCT or Blackboard can offer.  For example, a Desire2Learn course site offers:

• online discussions and tools to create and direct online groups
• a calendar where workshop participants as well as the teacher can make entries
• chat rooms
• whiteboard
• student homepages
• student presentations, both by groups and individuals
• assignment drop box
• online tests and quizzes
• online gradebook where students can access their individual grade information
• a tracking record that reports to the teacher the frequency and pattern of each students work at the course Web site.

As you can see, the main differences have to do with features that allow students to interact with the site and that track students' work. These are very important features for online courses. But for teachers who are building Web sites to support "on-the-ground" courses, an open access site like the WorldWide Writers' PLACE may be much easier to build and maintain. Open sites are also much easier for students to access.