Hypermedia learning and prior knowledge: domain expertise vs. system expertise.

Prior knowledge is often argued to be an important determinant in hypermedia learning, and may be thought of as including two important elements: domain expertise and system expertise. However, there has been a lack of research considering these issues together. In an attempt to address this shortco...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Journal of Computer Assisted Learning Vol. 21; no. 1; pp. 53 - 65
Autores principales: Mitchell TJF, Chen SY, Macredie RD
Formato: pictorial research tables/charts Journal Article
Publicado: Wiley-Blackwell Feb2005
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:Prior knowledge is often argued to be an important determinant in hypermedia learning, and may be thought of as including two important elements: domain expertise and system expertise. However, there has been a lack of research considering these issues together. In an attempt to address this shortcoming, this paper presents a study that examines how domain expertise and system expertise influence students' learning performance in, and perceptions of, a hypermedia system. The results indicate that participants with lower domain knowledge show a greater improvement in their learning performance than those with higher domain knowledge. Furthermore, those who enjoy using the Web more are likely to have positive perceptions of non-linear interaction. Discussions on how to accommodate the different needs of students with varying levels of prior knowledge are provided based on the results.