Abstract

This study examines the interaction between an individual’s thinking style and his or her use of navigational aids during a learning session on the World Wide Web. Participants’ thinking style was assessed, and then they were asked to choose whether to use a concept map or a linear layout of information in order to learn. The aspect of thinking style measured was found to have no significant effect on the choice of navigational aid. It is suggested that other aspects of thinking style might have more effect on the choice of navigational aid, as well as a number of other factors. It is also suggested that hypertext is not a suitable unsupported learning medium for novices.