MENTAL MODELS - A RESEARCH FOCUS FOR INTERACTIVE LEARNING-SYSTEMS

The difficulty of understanding the structure and functions of computer programs is especially acute when learners are given the freedom to explore hypertext materials in which the possibility of disorientation is strong. Mental model theory is an attempt to model and explain human understanding of objects and phenomena during learning (and other activities). Research on mental models in human-computer interaction can identify important characteristics of cognitive processes and help in the development of research-based guidelines for designing interactive learning systems. This article calls for programmatic research on learners' mental models and provides guidelines for the conduct of such research.