Thesis Summary
Use and Effectiveness
of Navigational Aids
in Hypertext
ABSTRACT
- Goal: The goal of this study is to investigate
use and effectiveness of navigational aids in a hypertext
system. In addition, this study explained the
effectiveness of training concerning strategies for using
navigational tools.
- Hypotheses: It was hypothesized that the
frequency of use of navigational tools would be
significantly different between strategy trained and
untrained groups, and that performance would be positively
correlated with the frequency of using navigational tools
and the objective.
- Findings:
- Strategy training and use of objective did not lead
to a significant difference in learning measured by
pretest-posttest difference, but use of navigational
tools was found to be a good predictor to performance.
- Moreover, users perceived pop-up as the most useful
hypertext feature while map was perceived as the least
helpful.
- Last, perception of usefulness of navigational aids
was positively correlated with use of those tools.
- Recommendations: Based on these findings, it is
recommended that a strategy training should not only
inform the users about strategies, but also persuade users
that those tools are helpful and motivate users to try
them out. These results suggest that for novice users,
easy access to information (e.g. pop-ups) may be more
important than random access capabilities provided by
other aids.
I wrote my master’s thesis on hypertext a long
time ago, using Apple’s HyperCard technology. Despite
HyperCard no longer being available, my research findings
remain relevant today. The concept of hypertext within a
system is equivalent to hyperlinks across the Internet. The
impact of quick access to information on learning continues
to hold significant implications for both instructional
designers and students. This foundational work highlights
how interconnected information systems can enhance
educational experiences and improve the efficiency of
learning processes. Please feel free to contact me if you
have any questions.
