Choosing the right e-learning navigation

Which navigational model in e-learning is better?

Looking from a learner’s perspective, I prefer the second one when I want to quickly find important information (a.k.a. at the point of need).

However, when I want to learn a topic with which I’m not so familiar, I can appreciate linear guidance through the content. Actually, in this situation, the option to choose my own path can easily become a distraction.

What do you think? Do you stick to a single navigational model, or do you adapt the navigation model to different situations and purposes?

P.S. Both models are taken from JollyDeck LMS, where you can easily set the navigational model for each e-learning course before publishing it.