A hypertext reading environment differs from a traditional printed text environment in that the hypertext learner has the ability to self-select the type and sequence of information to be acquired rather than following the path provided by the author of the text. Recent research has suggested that the navigational opportunity of a hypertext changes the nature of how individuals interact with the information. Further, it has been suggested that the implementation of a specific learning goal will enhance the structure a hypertext reader gives to the acquired information. This investigation examined the nature of a reader's representation of hypertext content in the presence or absence of a specified learning objective. Results indicated that although no differences were detected between the two learning conditions (specific versus general learning goal) with regard to the amount and type of information recalled, readers with a specific learning goal recalled a more unique and individually tailored representation of the text than did readers without a specific learning goal. Reprinted by permission of the publisher.
Relation:
International journal of instructional media 26(1), pp.43-51
