Hyperlinking or hypertext is one form of "hypermedia." Essentially, hyperlinking is created by embedding links to external URL's within a text block. Hyperlinking allows a more dynamic textual environment.

• You have to give context to something you're trying to say in writing but don't want your writing and explanation to be so in-depth.
• You want to provide specific examples from other websites or webpages.
• You have several articles that you want to use in a web course. For this purpose, the articles could be scanned and entered in Marylhurst's Electronic Reserve and accessed via a URL.
• You are trying to create a dynamic environment using rich, online resources.

• Often times, other people can say it better than you! Instead of extracting or quoting huge blocks of text, simply link to the site/text and avoid copyright issues.
• Open new sites in a "new window." This allows for more user control and also makes it obvious that you're linking to an external site.
• Too many hyperlinks can be confusing. Using grouping and/or headers to help organize links can save students time. Also, make sure you review sites and/or readings before posting the link.