I can still remember the first time I “used” a hypertext for the first time. It blew my mind. It seemed like a short cut that was linked directly to my thoughts while at the same time being a research angel by my side. While on one page, usually any questions I had could be answered immediately by clicking on the magic, blue, underlined words. Using them also exposed me to new ideas and deeper avenues of topics of interest than I would have thought to search out on my own. The information that was at my fingertips was impressive and intimidating all at the same time.
“Getting information off the Internet is like taking a drink from a fire hydrant.” – Mitchell Kapor
I agree with the above quote, but I would also add that once you get use to the force of flow, the water is remarkable. However, there seems to be an area that hypertext has not sunk it’s teeth in yet- Fiction. Fiction reading and writing is considered to be the last frontier of the hypertext. There have been some major flops and several reasons for each one.
Use the above headings to navigate your journey. They are automatically in alphabet order, but feel free to chose at your own interest.
You will also find each post to contain a series of hyperlinks to help you explore any of the material further. I tried not to overdo it….I did not want to create a “fire hydrant” effect for you, maybe a strong trickle 🙂
This blog will look at several aspects of hypertext that are connected to ETEC 540 both directly and indirectly.
Enjoy!
Tracy
I downloaded TeraBox and suddenly felt like I owned a virtual warehouse. Jeff Bezos who?
This discussion on Hypertext in the Late Age of Print is fascinating! It really shows how digital tools shape the way we create and consume content today. If you’re exploring modern design and digital creativity, you might enjoy checking out an Envato Elements download blog—they’re packed with resources that align perfectly with these evolving trends.
That first-time experience you described with hypertext really captures how powerful it feels to suddenly have knowledge branching out at your fingertips. It reminds me of how websites like bowenremodeling.com guide visitors through ideas and solutions in a way that feels intuitive, almost like the digital version of moving through different design options until you land on the one that fits best.
I read through your post and really enjoyed the way you described the impact of hypertext. The comparison to a research shortcut is spot on, and it reminded me how much easier learning became once I got comfortable using it. Your point about fiction being one of the last frontiers for hypertext is interesting and gives me something new to think about. Looking forward to reading more of your insights. On a side note, I’d also be interested if you ever explore practical topics outside of tech, like home improvement or Siding Installation Service, since many readers balance both personal and digital projects.