Dynamic and spatial representation of web movements and navigational patterns through the use of navigational paths as data |
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| Authors: | Kumar Laxman |
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| Institution: | (1) Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching, Nanyang Technological University, 76 Nanyang Drive, Basement 1, Block N2.1, Singapore, 637331, Singapore |
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| Abstract: | Solving real-world problems is an effective learning activity that promotes meaningful learning in formal educational settings.
Problems can be classified as being either well structured or ill structured. Internet information search approaches have
an influential role to play in the successful performance of problem solving. A better understanding of how students differentially
model information search strategies and movements in tackling well- and ill-structured problems is essential for creating
engaging problem-solving environments for students. Static measures, such as the number of accessed nodes or links, or the
number of times particular web browser function buttons are clicked, are limited in their ability to analyze attributes of
information search patterns. A more dynamic and spatial representation of web movements and navigational patterns can be realized
through the use of navigational paths as data. The two path-specific structural metrics that can be used to assess network-based
navigational paths in relation to the structuredness of the problem-solving task are compactness and stratum. These metrics are, respectively, the indicators of the connectedness and linearity of network-based structures defining students’ online navigational visitations during the problem-solving sessions. This
study explored the relevance and utility of these two metrics in analyzing the navigational movements of learners in seeking
out electronic information to accomplish successful problem solving. The outcome findings of this study show that well- and
ill-structured problems demand different cognitive and information seeking navigational approaches. The differing values of
the two path metrics in analyzing the search movements organized by students in attending to well- and ill-structured problems
were a direct result of the contrasting patterns of navigational path movements. The search patterns associated with well-structured
problem solving tended to be more linear and less connected, whereas those related to ill-structured problem solving were
more distributed and inter-connected. |
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