Do WWW-based presentations support better (constructivistic) learning in the basics of informatics?

Hypertext and the WWW appear to have a positive effect on learning. Both techniques permit a constructivist learning environment to support the student\´s knowledge construction and permit a more active student role. However, the problems associated with the aforementioned may endanger the benefit to learning. Thus, the role and the forms of hypertext and the WWW must be discussed. Due to the common problems of "information overload" and being "lost-in hyperspace" we suggest guided tours in the form of a slideshow presentation as a solution to organizing a hypermedia presentation on the WWW for learning the basics of informatics. These slides include links to the appropriate supporting web sites. In addition to the idea of a guided tour, based on the cognitive flexibility theory, we also suggest that the use of search engines and directories must be promoted. This paper describes the use of guided tours Its a complementary addition to conventional lectures in the learning of the basics of informatics. We claim that learning can be promoted in the spirit of constructivism, situated action and cognitive flexibility when organizing coursework based on guided tours as well as se arch engines and directories. We analyze the benefit of optional coursework including the use of guided tours and in addition the use of search engines and directories on the WWW. At the beginning and end of the course we analyzed how useful and interesting the students regarded six themes of the course. In addition, the students were expected to analyze their own development of computer use skills, Internet use skills, and their knowledge of basic concepts in informatics. The study found that WWW-based coursework affects both external and internal motivation equally in most cases. The effect on Internet skills and especially on the knowledge of basic concepts in informatics was beneficial.