Abstract: A virtual lab is generated for a underlying learning objective defined by a lab instructor. The virtual lab is decomposed into multiple lab steps. Each lab step defines a portion of the underlying learning objective that can be performed independently. Each lab step includes pedagogical information for teaching a learner the portion of the underlying learning objective and information for specifying a portion of the underlying system that will execute the lab step. A first portion of the underlying system is caused to execute a first lab step. This allows the learner to perform the portion of the underlying learning objective defined in the first lab step. An event generated by the learner's performance of the first lab step is received. In response, a specific pedagogical procedure that is dictated by the event is caused to be performed.

Abstract: MTOM data transfer via TCP is described. In an embodiment, a Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP) message is separated into message units using SOAP Message Transmission Optimization Mechanism (MTOM). The message units include a text-based component and independent binary component(s) of the SOAP message. A virtual connection protocol manages and sequences binary transport connection(s), such as transmission control protocol (TCP) connection events, to provide reliable wireless transfer of the message units via the binary transport connection(s).

Abstract: Voice instant messaging between mobile and computing devices is described. In an embodiment, a messaging service receives a recorded voice clip from a mobile communication-enabled device via a wireless communication link. The messaging service then processes the recorded voice clip for communication via a data network to a computing-based device that renders an audio message from the recorded voice clip. A virtual connection protocol manages and sequences transmission control protocol (TCP) connection events to provide reliable wireless transfer of recorded voice clip(s) via wireless communication link. The mobile communication-enabled device logs a first instant messaging contact into the messaging service, and the computing-based device logs a second instant messaging contact into the messaging service to enable two-way voice instant messaging between the first instant messaging contact and the second instant messaging contact at the respective devices.