The purpose of this paper is to familiarize instructional designers and researchers with a useful design and research paradigm known as "Ask Systems." Ask Systems are interrogative interfaces to information and learning environments that model conversations with a skilled, reflective practitioner (Schon, The reflective practitioner, "1983") or…

This study investigated the effects of domain-general and domain-specific scaffolds with different levels of support, continuous and faded, on learning of scientific content and problem-solving. Students' scores on a multiple-choice pretest, posttest, and four recommendation forms were analyzed. Students' content knowledge in all conditions…

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…

The study examined the incremental validity of thinking styles in predicting academic achievement after controlling for personality and achievement motivation in the hypermedia-based learning environment. Seventy-two Chinese college students from Shanghai, the People's Republic of China, took part in this instructional experiment. The…

Against the background of an adaptation of Cognitive Load Theory to learner-controlled settings we investigated the impact of learner characteristics on information utilization strategies, cognitive load, and learning outcomes in a hypermedia environment. Based on the data of 79 students, five clusters of students were identified according to…

Explains flexible cognition theory and the use of hypertext to encourage multiple representations. Describes a prototypical hypertext/multimedia computer program using flexible cognition to help learners apply principles, interpret relationships, state inferences, test hypotheses, and formulate conclusions. (SK)

Summarizes studies postulating that advanced materials taught in multiple, nonlinear, and situationally dependent ways result in learning that encourages transfer and more agile use of data. Illustrates how microcomputer technology can be used to provide learning opportunities that are consistent with these goals. (JOW)

For this study, we examined the cogency, comprehensiveness, and viability of team-based problem solutions of a Web-based hypermedia case designed to promote student understanding of the practice of instructional design. Participants were 14 students enrolled in a graduate course on advanced instructional design. The case was presented to students…

Examines the advantages of presenting case study information via multimedia. Highlights identify advantages of using multimedia, including browsability, comprehensiveness, currency, flexibility, linkage, simplicity, precision, closeness to problem, and cost savings. Potential problems are also discussed. (Contains eight references.) (SLW)

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…

This study examined the influence of three different combinations of document structures and menu designs on users' attitude, performance, and learning in five different search tasks. The three types of combinations studied were: (1) an explicit menu signaling hierarchical structure where cross-referencing was not supported (EXH--explicit and…

This paper examines the structure of the Applesoft BASIC programming language and the Macintosh authoring language, HyperCard, and scrutinizes the language structures as the building blocks for moving along a chain of cognitive outcomes that culminates in the acquisition of problem solving skills which allow the programmer to learn new formal…

This study investigated patterns and effects of cognitive tools usage during engagement with an open-ended hypermedia learning environment. Seven technical institute students engaged in problem-solving tasks concerning anatomy and physiology. They used 16 cognitive tools embedded in a hypermedia system and their tool use patterns and corresponding…

Discusses the use of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) for bibliographic instruction in libraries. Highlights include learning theories; behaviorism; cognitive theory; the effectiveness of CAI; improving CAI through the use of hypertext and hypermedia; and broadening bibliographic instruction programs to include problem-solving skills using…

Presents a study of problem-solving activities in a hypermedia representation of a theorem-proving problem. Qualitative analyses of user activities and responses to questions asked while using a system called HUGH&ME are described. The need for hypermedia-based tools to support expression and refinement of reasoning during problem solving is…