Lesson 15: Understanding Hypermedia

Hypermedia is nothing but multimedia, but this time packaged as an educational computer software where information is presented and student activities are integrated in a virtual learning environment. Most educational IT applications are hypermedia and these include tutorial software packages, knowledge webpages, simulation instructional games, and learning project management and others.

          The presentation of information- learning activities in hypermedia is said to be sequenced in a non-linear manner, meaning that the learner may follow his own path of activities thus providing an environment of learner autonomy and thinking skills.

          There are three important features that are outstanding that characterize the hypermedia software:

1.      Learner control - the learner makes his own decisions on the path, flow or events of instruction.

2.       Learner wide range of navigation routes - the learner controls the sequence and pace of his path depending on his ability and motivation.

3.       Variety of media - which includes more than one media but does not necessarily use all types of media in one presentation.