The present invention is a method and apparatus for monitoring and filtering data transmission for providing the creation of a secure “virtual classroom” through which teachers can use the internet to link their students to other classes and work collaboratively and create a “shared learning” environment. A collaborative community is created by a teacher or administrator who submits initial input data to a central storage and clearing center. A first filter system is employed to ascertain and control the entrance of class data in order to ensure that the entering party is duly authorized. Once the initial input data is accepted, a search engine permits the teacher to search for compatible shared classrooms. The dynamic filtering permits security to be controlled by a central location and ties the individual classrooms into a network. The dynamic filtering level component permits each classroom and each student to be monitored to a degree designated by the teacher and appropriate for the student. A flagging filter component scans all incoming and outgoing messages to permit review prior to release.