Name: Whyville

Company: Numedeon

Established: March 1999

Overview: Kids in Whyville get the opportunity to connect as real productive citizens within a virtual world, with education on social and world issues at the forefront as they chat, work, contribute to the Whyville newspaper, earn clams and learn about financing purchases, and investigate science, mathematics and art. It encourages self-expression and makes a clear effort to distinguish between strong, child-safe moderation and censorship; for example, it points out that users are free to complain about in-world features they dislike, and while offensive content is a reportable offense, insulting another user isn't.

How it Works: Whyville runs in a browser using Java, with a pull-down menu to the left of the play window that allows users to select their location. Each location is themed around a specific type of activity, and users can move around in the play window or enter buildings by point-and-click.

Payment Method: Whyville is free to play, supported entirely by ads and sponsorship from organizations or university centers that have exhibits in Whyville.

Key Features:
-Users must pass a quiz on chat behavior before being afforded privileges
-Scholastic Publishing, US Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution all sponsor programs
-Users can create and sell their own Whyville faces for "clams" (in-world currency)

Useful Links:
Whyville's 'Cool' Factor Helps Industry, Learning
CEO Dr. Jim Bower on Advertising in Virtual Communities
Whyville: The Place Girls Love to Go For Science