Reading Hypertext

Hypertext as a challenge to the existing practices of reading has been used to polarize differences between two kinds of reading: a constrained, linear form determined by the nature of print text, and a decentered, participatory form supposed to be liberated by hypertext. But some empirical studies of reading, however, suggests that these aspects of hypertext may disrupt reading.

David S. Miall and Teresa Dobson
Since long there has been much of debate on the topic of 'hypertext reading' with a lot of studies going on across the world to establish its pros and cons. While some people describe online reading as a difficult reading experience, the others advocate its use for a variety of advantages. 
At the same time, some hypertext researchers have associated it with the linear print environment by comparing it with footnotes and indices. They suggest that it allows information to be organized and connected in a variety of ways that provide the user with a flexible working environment.
Hypertext certainly offers many types of learning experiences, but those not familiar with hypertext could encounter barriers. The experts also suggest that the 'unpleasent reading experience' associated with hypertext could be overcome by using intelligent hypertext design principles.

In this presentation, we would take a brief look at the broad

advantages and
disadvantages of hypertext

Hypertext > Style Guide to Hypertext > Reading Hypertext
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Advantages of hypertext reading 


1. Multiple paths of inquiry / Non linear structure
Users in hypertext are presented with multiple paths of inquiry to select at any given time. Any option that is taken can be quickly "back tracked" to investigate another option or link.

2. Individualized learning opportunities
These multiple paths of inquiry can be customized for particular learners or groups of learners.

3. Reader control
A hypertext environment gives the reader a control over paths of reading. Reader control allows the learner to make choices in navigating and manipulating the content on sites.

4. Any - All sorts of information
Searching for specific information is easier with hypertext at any point of time.

5. Creating new references
In many hypertext environments, users can contribute their own work to be published in cyberspace and can easily link to existing documentation, thus expanding their network of knowledge.

6. Updating information
Writers of hypertext can easily access their work and update information, links, and references, to ensure an active and functional site.

7. Critical thinking
Hypertext allows readers to analyze information from multiple perspectives. Information gathered from different sources at one point of time engages users in critical thinking as they make choices, discover new information and solve problem through their own route.

8. Collaborative learning
Hypertext environments can be created that foster cooperative learning and collaboration among learners.

9. Centering and de-centering
As the learner uses hypertext, they determine the focus or center of investigation by choosing to move outside the limits setup by the author's navigational structure.

10. Ease of navigation
Navigational aids, such as bookmarks and history lists allow the user quick access within a document.  Bookmarks allow  return to points of interest and history lists allow back-tracking of the learners' navigational steps.  Other navigational aids include site links and guided tours that orientate the user to the site. Electronic hypertext could be well compared to a footnote that makes individual references easy to follow and the entire field of interconnections obvious and easy to navigate.

11. Embedded text
Text in a document can be directly linked to references and other documents for quick access.  Embedded text, if moved to a new document, will take its linked properties with it.

12. Intertextuality
Writings derive meaning from relationships to other writings, and these relationships can be shown in hypertext.

13. Asynchronous communication
Not only, does hypertext support synchronous communication, giving it a similar functionality as a book, hypertext enables direct communication with an author or expert, (asynchronous communication) thus, providing an enriched learning environment.

14. Teaching with Hypertext
Hypertext allows students to scan information quickly in an interactive environment at their own pace and not feel pressured to keep up with the class.  Learners can work independently and respond to tasks obtaining immediate feedback in most instances.These enable students to interact with blocks of text by picking and choosing topics of interest as they navigate through hypertext documents.
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Disadvantages of hypertext:                                                                                                    Top
  

1. Computer Required
In order to use hypertext, the user essentially requires a computer and the ability to know how to access the information.  Icons and other graphic images commonly found in hypertext usually represent a function to perform that may be unfamiliar to a new user.

2. Reading from the Screen
Writers of hypertext may create cumbersome and clogged sites with confusing structures where users get lost when navigating through information. Reading from the screen is very different from reading in a linear text. The interactive picking and choosing of information to read in hypertext changes the instructional experience from traditional linear sequence. The interactive style of reading may be altering the form of reading. 

3. Reader Disorientation
Critics of hypertext say that users may lose their sense of direction or location as they move and select links in hypertext. There may well be a problem with concentration as the learner moves through hypertext. Each link may redirect the learner's attention and require a shift in attention. Readers in hypertext may find it difficult to stay on track given the option to diverge down another path.

4. Cognitive Overhead
Cognitive overhead is the effort and concentration required to maintain several tasks at one time. Critics of hypertext believe that learners can experience cognitive overload as they try to keep track of multiple paths of inquiry. A well-designed hypertext environment will minimize cognitive overhead.

5. Too much control
The users who have very little knowledge of a subject may be overwhelmed by the information and lack the skills to succeed when using hypertext.  These users don't know where to start to engage in productive learning.
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