HYPERMEDIA NAVIGATION - PROFILES OF HYPERMEDIA USERS

In this study we explored the use of log files as a window into the pr ocess of hypermedia navigation. Although there is a growing body of re search addressing theoretical and design issues related to open-ended, non-directive technologies such as hypermedia, relatively few studies have attempted to explain navigational performance. Sixty-six undergr aduate students used a multidimensional, computer-based kiosk that cou ld be explored in a nonlinear fashion to find information in response to one of two information-retrieval tasks (simple or complex). Cluster analysis was used to generate performance profiles derived from navig ational data captured in log files. Analyses of within-cluster perform ance profiles, combined with external validation criteria, led to the classification of four different types of navigational performance (mo dels users, disenchanted volunteers,feature explorers, and cyber carto graphers). These characterizations were consistent with information-re trieval scores and the external criteria (self-efficacy, perceived uti lity, and interest). For example, individuals who appeared to fake the time to learn the layout of the kiosk also had the highest self-effic acy, while those who used the help screen and watched the most movies had the lowest self-efficacy. Results also demonstrated an interaction between various individual navigational profiles and type information -retrieval task.