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

摘要

Prior knowledge is often argued to be an important determinant in hypermedia learning,\udand may be thought of as including two important elements: domain expertise and\udsystem expertise. However, there has been a lack of research considering these issues\udtogether. In an attempt to address this shortcoming, this paper presents a study that\udexamines how domain expertise and system expertise influence students’ learning\udperformance in, and perceptions of, a hypermedia system. The results indicate that\udparticipants with lower domain knowledge show a greater improvement in their learning\udperformance than those with higher domain knowledge. Furthermore, those who enjoy\udusing the Web more are likely to have positive perceptions of non-linear interaction.\udDiscussions on how to accommodate the different needs of students with varying levels\udof prior knowledge are provided based on the results.