Knowledge-structured information systems for understanding: An architecture and an implementation.
Author
Davalos, Sergio Victor.Issue Date
1992Advisor
George, Joey F.
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The University of Arizona.Rights
Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.Abstract
This research addresses the problem of developing computer-based systems to support the understanding of information by executive level users. The approach taken is based on the use of prior knowledge in the form of knowledge (cognitive) structures to understand new information. The knowledge structures used are case, schemata, concepts, and semantic networks. A system architecture for supporting information understanding, the Understanding Support System (USS), was developed and was implemented on an Apple Mac using HyperCard software. The USS is implemented in an object-oriented architecture using hypertext organization methods to support the cognitive process of associative information development and retrieval. Node and link representation and associative schemes are used to store and represent cognitive structures in the form of networks of interlinked nodes of knowledge. These networks are treated as individual units by the USS. The current system supports a single user for: (1) building mental representations, (2) using prior knowledge in the form of knowledge nodes, knowledge structures, and case knowledge, (3) using knowledge structures for knowledge base access, and (4) navigation of the knowledge base through links that associate knowledge nodes in the cognitive structures. Eventually the USS can support use of a corporate knowledge base by many users. An evaluation of the USS based on human-computer research methodologies for systems development is discussed.Type
textDissertation-Reproduction (electronic)
Degree Name
Ph.D.Degree Level
doctoralDegree Program
Business AdministrationGraduate College