Hypertext Systems

Abstract

This paper is based on a research programme carried out at Coventry University's School of Art and Design in the UK Hypertext-based authoring methodologies have been examined for their potential use by undergraduate and postgraduate art and design students in the context of historical and theoretical studies Normally, students studying art and design present text-based theoretical material in the form of linearly structured essays and theses which do not exploit the two- and three-dimensional visualisation skills associated with studio and workshop based practice The paper explores the feasibility of employing hypertext document design as a means of linking art and design skills with the manipulation of text and image for theoretical research presentation The aim of the Coventry work is to determine the extent to which methodologies employed for the design and presentation of theoretical research in the field of art and design education can draw upon those visualisation and authoring skills which lie at the heart of studio and workshop practice The paper describes the wider historical and educational framework in which the research is set, introduces examples of software and prototype documents, and presents guidelines for introducing students to hypertext authoring methodologies