Lesson 16: Understanding Hypermedia

Hypermedia refers to software programs where students can organize and present ideas and information. Most of these programs are educational ones. Some of these are:

a.       Tutorial software packages;

b.      Knowledge webpages;

c.       Simulation instruction games; and

d.      Learning project management; and others.

Characteristics of hypermedia applications

1.      Learner control. Learners can decide on their own what they wanted to include in the instruction. She/he is in control of the events, flow, content, media, feedback, etc. in the hypermedia program.

2.      Learner wide range of navigation routes. This means that learners of the hypermedia program can work on their desired sequence and pace of his path depending on his likes and motivation. Students also have the chance to choose their preferred activity and that teachers will set the learning goal and objectives.

3.      Variety of media. Hypermedia includes more than one media (text, graphics, audio, animation and video clip) but does not necessarily use all types of media in one presentation. Since only virtual learning activity takes place, it is important from the standpoint of the teacher to optimize the learning process by identifying the characteristics of media application, as well as the advantages and limitations of such an application.

Computers cannot replace teachers as well as these hypermedia programs cannot replace the learning activity in the classroom. These programs are created to support the activity in the classroom to make it more effective, enjoyable and interactive.

Hypermedia programs are useful to the teachers in ways like:

·         Get the learner’s attention

·         Recall prior learning

·         Inform learners of lesson objectives

·         Introduce the software and its distinctive features

·         Guide learning, eliciting performance

·         Provide learning feedback

·         Assess performance

·         Enhance retention and leaning transfer

Hypermedia programs are very useful programs for teachers and students. It increases the drive and determination of the students to learn. It motivates them to participate in the discussion. These are effective tools in preparing and setting the learning environment. This was realized during the reporting. The reporters have modified the usual oral questioning into a much more creative way through the integration of technology. They have successfully set the mood of the learning environment into a very encouraging and interactive way. They have as well, presented a nice PowerPoint presentation which made it easier to comprehend things. In addition the group has provided a study related to the topic that have further explained concepts and arguments.

I have learned that hypermedia programs can be a tool that can increase students’ participation in the classroom. It also allows learners to experience real-life events; it enriches interests and a tool for informing students with the learning objective of the teacher, etc. The good thing about hypermedia program is that it promotes learning and teaches them to be optimistic and active in acquiring and constructing new knowledge.

Teacher’s roles are very crucial and hard. What teachers teach to their students contribute to their growth and development. That is why, teachers must think of ways that would help them to become effective in teaching the students. Thanks to the creation of hypermedia programs that can help teachers with their lesson. These programs help them in giving direct feedback to students; assessing learning and it stimulate active learning. Hypermedia programs on the other hand, help learners in ways like, various programs can improve their motivation to learn and they provide opportunities to learners to acquire things independently, anytime and anywhere.