This paper describes the development of an interoperable meta-database system--a system of applications using metadata--that is intended to facilitate learner-centered collaboration, access to learning resources, and the fitness of channels of information to the emerging needs of learners at both individual and group levels. Highlights include: self assembly approaches in artificial intelligence; definition of several relevant concepts, e.g., elements/paths, fitness functions, recombination, and feed forward/feedback paths; and types of metadata, e.g., audience, discipline, and theme. The new World Wide Web-based educational database applications are preparing to use the concepts of self-assembly to treat digital media paths as a new form of texts and courses in education. (Contains 14 references.) (Author/MES)