Computers have changed the landscape of scientific research in profound ways. Technology has always played an important role in scientific experimentation--through the development of increasingly sophisticated tools, the measurement of elusive quantities, and the processing of large amounts of data. However, the advent of social networking and the internet have added a new dimension to the role of computers in science. The large quantity of data that scientists require is now shared on a much wider scale than before and is therefore more available. Collaboration over online channels has become a common way for scientists to interact. In many areas of science--from particle physics to climate change--large teams of scientists work together sharing data and resources and collaborating on the scientific process. Students are often not given opportunities to work with shared data and collaborate online, yet these activities promote key inquiry skills such as analysis and communication. Online collaboration can help foster student-centered learning--it is an engaging medium for students and is a powerful way to promote scientific discussion and theory-building in the classroom. In this article, the author discusses an online collaborative investigation of "Brassica rapa" (Wisconsin fast plants) by fifth-graders during a unit on the life cycle of plants. (Contains 3 figures and 1 online resource.)