In an analysis of the psychological domain we find a classification global versus analytical, or field-dependent versus field-independent, in addition to some other other categories.
The global or field-dependent learner performs better when a hierarchical information space is navigated in a breadth-first manner. The global learner first wants to know the scope or rough content of a whole course before studying the details of a single chapter.
The analytical or field-independent learner can select a topic and study it in depth right away. This suggests a depth-first navigation strategy.