To build a learning community, the General Biology faculty at Johns Hopkins University conducted collaborative, problem-based learning assignments outside of class in which students are assigned to specific areas on campus, and gather and report data about their area. To overcome the logistics challenges presented by conducting such assignments in a class of 300+ students, we developed a software environment in which faculty write and distribute assignments and student teams record and store observational data. Further, the software uses a map of the campus to assign teams to a specific area and to manage the data relevant to that area. Since students can view data submitted by all teams, the faculty have devised assignments requiring students to examine and compare data from one area to another, thereby promoting interaction among the student groups. Faculty and mentors review, provide comments, and grade the assignments. The mapping feature enables faculty to develop questions that build from previous years' data. General Biology student teams in AY 2005-2006, for example, will compare reported data gathered in 2004-2005 with their current observations. Further, data can be pooled from all of the Biomes to conduct a survey across the campus. (Contains 6 figures.)