Hyperlink can be defined as a predefined linkage between one object and another. (Reference: TechEncyclopedia, http://www.techweb.com/encyclopedia) The hyperlink or link can be text or a graphic that when clicked will take the reader to an object. 

Using hyperlinks, instructors can provide:

• Remedial or prerequisite materials and/or activities to prepare learners for the content.
• Enhancements and further explanations of the content.
• Opportunities for learners to go beyond the expected outcomes by delving deeper into the content.

Essentially, any text or graphic can be linked. The user does not need to know the address of the link or even the server where the link is stored. When the user clicks on the link, the user automatically connects to the site and an attempt is made to open the file. You will be able to open the file if your computer has the software or plug-in applications needed to view the specific format of the file.

For example, HTML files will open in a browser, while PDF files will require a PDF reader (Adobe Acrobat Reader). Other objects include spreadsheets, word processing documents, graphics, and video. The format of video clips can be formatted for RealOne (.rm), Windows Media Player (.avi), Quicktime (.mov or .qt), and others with each having limitations regarding platform and/or software required. Flash is a proprietary application that can be used for videos but it requires a Flash player plug-in. For more information on creating hyperlinks (also called "hot links"), check out WebCom's Hyperlink Tutorial. (http://www.webcom.com/html/tutor/hotlink.shtml)

Tips and Suggestions on Using Hyperlinks

• Have the hyperlink open the site in a new browser window. Opening the link in a new browser window has the following advantages:
• Allows students to return easily to the "home" site by closing the new window when finished.
• Places responsibility of respecting the intellectual property rights of the sites on the students rather than having the site connected specifically to the 'home' site.
• Link ALL external hyperlinks used in the materials from a single Web page. This causes students to use an extra click but saves instructors a lot of time in checking and updating links. Internet sites are constantly changing making Web addresses unworkable. If links are embedded in the content throughout a course, to check and update the links an instructor would need to work through the entire course. Links from a single Web page can be checked and updated by simply opening the link page and checking/editing the links. Attributes can be used to connect the link to the top of the link Web page.
• Consider adding a disclaimer when linking to commercial sites. You might want to include a disclaimer that indicates that the link does not indicate that the university endorses their products or services and that the link is provided for reference only.
• Consider the plug-ins or programs students will need to open the hyperlink. Select applications for your files that students either have access to or can be downloaded without charge. PDF Reader, PowerPoint Viewer, and Flash Player are example plug-ins that can be down loaded free of charge. On the other hand, students would need Excel if you used an Excel spreadsheet as a hyperlink, which would be okay if students normally had access to Excel. Consider providing the plug-ins on a CD disk to reduce the download time required if students are accessing the site using modems.

Back to Tips to Better Utilize Technologies for Distance Education Delivery.

Destination 7: 18 of 22