User modelling in computer-based critics

Abstract

A user modelling approach for computer-based critics is described. The critiquing model approach to instantiating the cooperative problem-solving paradigm is considered. The theoretical background for cooperative problem-solving and the motivation for developing a user modelling approach in this domain are based on a need to provide systems that operate independently of explicit user direction. How to represent, acquire, and maintain consistency of the user model in a critiquing system for LISP programming called LISP-Critic is the fundamental issue addressed. A theoretical model of user domain knowledge, an analysis of the application domain, LISP, and research on the generation of explanations prescribe the contents of the user model. LISP-Critic has been extended to include a user modeling component which includes a database of information about the user and a modelling agent. The modelling agent encapsulates the access and update methods for th user model. >