Examining Cognitive Processing in Hypermedia Usage

Abstract

As a growing learning technology, hypermedia needs to be examined in terms of the cognitive processes it encourages in users. The characteristics that circumscribe hypermedia are first discussed. Two perspectives on learning from hypermedia are then presented. These are purpose of usage (culture, education, information) and usage context. Four cognitive processes involved in hypermedia usage are described. These are browsing, searching, integrating, and angling (establishing multiple perspectives). Two cognitive pitfalls are also discussed: hyperspace wandering and cohesion deficit. It is concluded that both practical and theoretical concerns emerge out of this focus on cognitive processes in hypermedia.