Learning of Basic Concepts in Informatics Using Collaborative Hypertext: Does Collaborative Hypertext Support Learning as a Whole?

This study was conducted to determine whether or not collaborative hypertext affects learning outcomes in the learning of basic concepts in informatics. The researchers organized two university courses about the basics in informatics using collaborative hypertext and two courses without collaborative hypertext. Learning was analyzed, and this paper presents results utilizing the tests of structural knowledge emphasizing learning as a whole. The study found that collaborative hypertext does not improve cognitive learning outcomes in this context. This reflects the need for traditional uncomputerized learning methods at the start of learning informatics or the need to concentrate on improving the truthfulness of a collaborative hypertext-based learning environment. However, the structural knowledge was learned better than single concepts in the groups using collaborative hypertext. Thus, it is concluded that collaborative hypertext supports learning as a whole compared with learning single facts. Topics discussed include: the nature of learning basic concepts, hypercomposition and collaborative hypertext, the study design, and results. One figure presents a simplified concept map concerning information systems development.