A Comparison of Knowledge Acquisition Techniques Used in the Development of Expert Systems
Abstract
The primary objective of this theses was to compare three knowledge acquisition techniques used to gather knowledge for the development of an expert system. The goal was to determine which technique produced knowledge in a form most suitable for incorporation into an expert system. The three acquisition techniques compared were interviewing, task observation, and concept mapping. Three experts were selected and randomly paired with a technique. Knowledge acquisition sessions were then conducted with each expert using the technique assigned to that expert. The knowledge extracted from these acquisition sessions was then compared. Overall, concept mapping produced more rules, in less time, and with fewer inferences than the interview or task observation techniques. Additionally, the knowledge base acquired through the concept mapping technique was more complete. Finally, concept mapping required one less translation of the knowledge to arrive at a form necessary for programming the expert system. An expert system was developed using the concept mapping technique and was validated in a field test. Results showed that the solutions provided by the expert system matched those provided by the human experts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA229252
Entities
People
- James R. Heatherton
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology