| Summary |
This thesis developed and field-tested a microcomputer-based hypertext software program (i.e., hyperdocument) designed to function as an exploration tool to facilitate the transition of middle school students to high school. In augmenting presently existing orientation procedures at an Eastern North Carolina high school, the user-controlled hypertext application program developed in the thesis provided students with the capability to access critical orientation information on an individual basis. Because previous research had established that student transition problems from middle to high school primarily reflected apprehensions with regard to course selection (e.g., course sequence requirements, course elective options), graduation requirements, and uncertainty about the specific operations of the entire high school program (e.g., faculty, extra-curricular activities, school rules), all of these areas (with others) were included within the program. Field-test results obtained through formal surveys and informal interviews of representative samples of the 150 participating freshmen students showed the hypertext program developed to be both a highly useful exploration tool and an effective application of computer technology. In addition, supplementary follow-up interviews with teachers, administrators, and parents (many of whom explored the program) provided additional evidence of the program's effectiveness and identified additional directions for it's future enhancement. |
