Hypertext Design Issues

Hypertext is a computer technology for “nonsequential reading and writing” in which chunks or nodes of information are connected by fixed links. Users access hypertext by selecting cross-reference (or “buttons”) in the context of a given node that is connected via links to other nodes. Such an “associative” strategy for information storage and retrieval differs from the indexing and searching technology of conventional database management and text retrieval systems, and offers significant advantages when used instead of or in combination with search systems. Hypertext is an ideal medium for making job aids, reference materials, and ‘just in time training’ available online to information-based workers. This article reviews five commercially available hypertext systems, and discusses several key hypertext design issues. Among the most important of these issues are the critical role of navigational aids in preventing users from becoming “lost” in the hypertext, the application of structured writing techniques to hypertext development, and the potential contributions of the human performance technology approach to hypertext in the form of systematic analysis, design, and evaluation methods.     

Effects of modified-implement training on fast bowling in cricket

The effects of training with overweight and underweight cricket balls on fast-bowling speed and accuracy were investigated in senior club cricket bowlers randomly assigned to either a traditional (n = 9) or modified-implement training (n = 7) group. Both groups performed bowling training three times a week for 10 weeks. The traditional training group bowled only regulation cricket balls (156 g), whereas the modified-implement training group bowled a combination of overweight (161-181 g), underweight (151-131 g) and regulation cricket balls. A radar gun measured the speed of 18 consecutive deliveries for each bowler before, during and after the training period. Video recordings of the deliveries were also analysed to determine bowling accuracy in terms of first-bounce distance from the stumps. Bowling speed, which was initially 108 +/- 5 km h(-1) (mean +/- standard deviation), increased in the modified-implement training group by 4.0 km x h(-1) and in the traditional training group by 1.3 km x h(-1) (difference, 2.7 km x h(-1); 90% confidence limits, 1.2 to 4.2 km x h(-1)). For a minimum worthwhile change of 5 km x h(-1), the chances that the true effect on bowling speed was practically beneficial/trivial/harmful were 1.0/99/< 0.1%. For bowling accuracy, the chances were 1/48/51%. This modified-implement training programme is not a useful training strategy for club cricketers.