The purpose of this study was to use multiple data sources, both objective and subjective, to capture students' thinking processes as they were engaged in problem solving, examine the cognitive tool use patterns, and understand what tools were used and why they were used. The findings of this study confirmed previous research and provided clear…

Pathfinder is a graphic theoretic technique used to analyze proximity data. This study evaluates its validity: (1) for representing and comparing individuals' navigation through a computer-based hypermedia environment; and (2) for generating an empirically-derived path that represents a set of individual navigational paths during computer-assisted…

Some studies of hypertext/hypermedia systems have concluded that there is little evidence supporting its educational efficacy. After examining conceptual and methodological shortcomings of research, this article suggests that the educational potential of hypertext/hypermedia has been underestimated and argues that overcoming these shortcomings…

Discusses how to design courseware programs that integrate benefits of instructionism (linear instruction) and constructionism in a hypermedia structure. A model of feedback that fades in and out is suggested, four examples are explained, and suggestions for redesigning programs are given. (LRW)

Examines constructivism as an epistemological basis for the design and use of hypermedia systems in order to synergize the constructivist view of learning and the potentialities of hypermedia. Proposes a new conceptual framework for constructive hypermedia learning systems based on cognitive, semiotic, and social perspectives. (Contains 151…

Discussion of information exploration and software design in computer-based educational systems focuses on the integration of hypermedia and natural language dialog. AlFRESCO is described, an interactive natural language-centered multimodal system that was developed for users interested in frescoes and paintings. (LRW)

The purpose of this study was to examine the connection between sixth graders' cognitive tool use and the cognitive processes they engage in as they solve a complex problem in a hypermedia learning environment. The three research questions were: (1) Which cognitive tools are used for which cognitive processes? (2) Is there a relationship between…

Describes TACTweb, a World Wide Web-based text and analysis environment that represents the results of text queries as hypertext, and the TACTweb workbook, a tutorial that introduces college students to the hypertextual capabilities of electronic literature and to the analysis of electronic editions of traditional text. Student feedback is…

Investigated the effects and efficiency of mandatory and optional note taking by undergraduate students (n=81) during computer-based instruction. The required note takers entered notes on every screen of the HyperCard lesson; this group scored significantly higher on the post-test and took significantly longer to complete the instruction than did…

Examines the navigational profiles of 42 undergraduate students processing a hypertext document. Three profiles emerged: (1) knowledge seekers, (2) feature explorers, and (3) apathetic hypertext users. Results indicate that students who are interested in computers and hypertext but who don't possess relevant amounts of domain knowledge aligned…

This discussion of hypertext focuses on a study of undergraduates that explored the conditions for making hypertext a better environment than a traditional linear text for studying and for an information search. Highlights include the influence of students' learning styles; and the availability of navigation tools. (Author/LRW)

Provides a select overview of hypertext and information retrieval tools that support traditional Jewish learning and discusses a project in instructional hypermedia that is applied to teaching, teacher training, and self-instruction in given Bible passages. Highlights include accretion of receptions, hermeneutics, literary appropriations, and…

This experimental study used graduate student participants to investigate the comparative perceptibility of hypertext navigation buttons in various configurations, using pictorial symbols and text labels. Findings indicate that buttons with both pictorial symbols and text labels resulted in significantly less user confusion. (Author/LRW)

Describes a study of undergraduates that determined the implications of content organization and cognitive style with regard to the design of hypertext. Highlights include effects of linking structure type and field-dependence and -independence on recall of verbal information, attitudes toward instructional materials, and use of the Group Embedded…

Describes a study of fifth graders that examined the effects of learner control and navigational aids on performance in a hypermedia instructional program. Results indicated that students who moved freely within the program and had access to navigational aids, interacted more with the program and achieved higher performance on posttests.…