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Provides an in-depth introduction to the various technologies that are bringing intelligent agents into the forefront of information technology, explaining how such agents work, the standards involved, and how agent-based applications can be developed. (Author/AEF)

A new fuzzy student modeling method with two intelligent agents, a diagnosis agent and a learning agent, are suggested by this article for several aspects of student modeling in Intelligent Tutoring Systems. Also integrated are fuzzy theories and Fuzzy-Hasse diagrams for student modeling. (Author/AEF)

Interacting cognitive subsystems (ICS) is proposed as a unified cognitive theory that can be used as the basis for representations in human-computer interaction, and two approaches based on the theory are described: one entails the description of cognitive task models, and the other entails the production of less complete diagrammatic notations. (Author/AEF)

Presents a chart comparing Web search engines. Discusses features covered in the chart: size; Boolean Operators and Parentheses; phrase searching; proximity; truncation; title, date and URL fields; links to a URL; language; media searching; name; case sensitivity; searches all common words; directory attached; gives count for answer; gives term count; output options; "more like this"; special features. (AEF)

This paper is grounded in a large-scale, nine-year research project intended to design, develop, evaluate, and transfer intelligent tutoring systems (ITS) to public schools and workforce development settings. Discussion includes the implementation model; roles and responsibilities of the project team; evaluation results of the tutoring systems; and recommendations. (Author/AEF)

Aviation technician students used Thinking Aloud Pair Problem Solving (TAPPS) while using the computerized Technical Troubleshooting Tutor. TAPPS, a cooperative leaning strategy, enhanced students' troubleshooting skill, training efficiency, competence, and confidence compared to a control group. (SK)

Suggests that a solution to the inadequacy and passivity problems with push and pull technologies could be in a combination of both, with an active component, adding more intelligence to the whole process of information and knowledge dissemination and supply. Describes basic principles of activity components in intelligent systems, and some possibilities of its exploitation in various types of information systems or knowledge management tools. (AEF)

Suggests that educators need to find a balance between the two realms of environmental education--the knowledge realm, including the scientific, technical, management side, and the realm stressing awareness and responsibility for the world. Describes benefits of using Geographical Information Systems (GISs) and remote sensing devices as environmental-education tools. (AEF)

Defines the contextual classification model, comparing it to the traditional metadata models from which it evolved. Using the MetaData Object Manager (M.O.M) as an example, discusses the use of Contextual Classification in developing this system, and the organizational, performance and reliability advantages of using an external (to the data stores themselves) MetaData Warehouse in developing a distributed heterogeneous system like M.O.M. (AEF)

Discusses the conceptual framework for developing a rapid-prototype high-performance knowledge base for the four mission agencies of the United States Department of Agriculture and their university partners. Describes the background of the project and methods used for establishing the requirements; examines issues and problems surrounding semantic interoperability in the context of the project; and emphasizes a Data Warehouse/Data Mining solution, and shows how such a solution is implemented. (AEF)

Focuses on how geographic information systems (GIS) software can be used to help simplify the integration of math and science. Discusses the importance of an integrated mathematics and science model, and how GIS can be used to help unite the two disciplines. Provides a lesson plan for teachers using GIS. (AEF)

Draws parallels between the rush to professionalization and the process of psychoanalysis in the United States in earlier decades. Offers account of what is happening in terms of the sociology of the counseling profession and suggests that expert systems are being substituted for local knowledge. Considers and rejects argument that this process is for "the good of the client." (Author/JDM)

Describes a system called CINDI (Concordia INdexing and DIscovery System) for cataloging and searching documents in a distributed virtual library. The document author registers metadata in the form of a semantic header that contains information on syntactic and semantic content, and an expert system fills the semantic header according to accepted library practice. Contains 37 references. (MES)

Examined language learning background features in relation to overall grade, rate of progress, and completion of an intensive English program. Determined extent to which success could be accurately predicted by an expert system when basing inferences on feature constellations including language learning background features only, entry proficiency features only, and language learning and entry features combined. (Author/VWL)

Describes a study that investigated what uses of technology preservice teacher education students planned for their careers after using constructivist technology tools, specifically semantic networks and expert system generation, in their own course. A qualitative analysis of student essays showed positive student attitudes toward using the same technology in their classrooms. (Contains 30 references.)(LRW)

Discussion of ICAE (Intelligent Computer Aided Education) systems focuses on Magix, a prototype ICAE system for use in problem-based learning in linear mathematics for 10- to 12-year olds. The system integrates the principles of constructivism, user-driven interaction, knowledge-based systems, and metacognition. (Author/LRW)

Discussion of information agents that search the Web on behalf of users focuses on ARIS, a shell for constructing information agents without coding that is similar to expert system shells. Searching is guided by knowledge about how pages on particular Web sites in a given domain are typically organized. (Author/LRW)

Examines the educational potential for intelligent agents as cognitive tools. Discusses the role of intelligent agents: managing large amounts of information (information overload), serving as a pedagogical expert, and creating programming environments for the learner. (AEF)

Discusses the design and use of intelligent tutoring systems (ITS) for computerized business simulations. Reviews the use of ITS as an instructional technology; presents a model for ITS-based business simulations; examines the user interface and link between the ITS and simulation; and recommends expert-consultant diagnostic testing, and pedagogical-support modules. (PEN)

Discusses the development and evaluation of the Academic Counselling Expert (ACE) system designed to replace the faculty advisor and provide requisite advice to aviation students at San Jose State University (California). This computer-based counselling system was accessed by 65 students (Spring 1996 semester); most students acquired appropriate advice and saved faculty advisors over 30 hours of consultation time. (AEF)

Excalibur RetrievalWare offers true knowledge retrieval solutions. Its fundamental technologies, Adaptive Pattern Recognition Processing and Semantic Networks, have capabilities for knowledge discovery and knowledge management of full-text, structured and visual information. The software delivers a combination of accuracy, extensibility, scalability, ease-of-use, security and openness which empowers users to find and apply needed information. (AEF)

ITELS is an intelligent system for foreign language terminology learning aimed at enhancing learners' conceptual knowledge as well as in understanding specific terminology. Three agents--each of them characterized by specific roles with respect to the system functioning--take part in the instructional process supported by ITELS: the human teacher, the system, and the learner. (Author/AEF)

Reports on a research project designed to develop an intelligent computer-based learning environment of industrial applications. "Jonas," an expert system, is part of a modeling/simulation environment which enables shop-floor workers to test and put new philosophies of work into practice in the context of manufacture. The approach focuses on the Intelligence Augmentation (IA) model, users-centered system design, and the constructionist theory of learning. (Author/AEF)

Presents the results of an analysis of CD-ROM reference sources and review-article bibliographies to identify trends, focus of studies, authorship patterns, and expressive quality of publications covering expert-systems applications in library and information services. The study retrieved 679 references: journal articles, conference proceedings, book articles, dissertations, and monographs. Lists 216 articles on expert systems. Contains 8 tables. (PEN)

Presents an authoring environment dedicated to the development of curriculum and course material that can be handled by an Intelligent Tutoring System (ITS). The adopted curriculum model is Curriculum Representation and Acquisition Model (CREAM) which represents subject-matter content from the domain, the pedagogical, and the didactic points of view. (Author/AEF)

Describes an application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology as a tool in an environmental community-service project in which students and adult community members participated in water-quality monitoring and biological assessment. Discusses issues and problems associated with technology in education and recommends a balance of experiential learning and virtual learning. (AEF)

Presents a technique for developing a knowledge-base of information to use in an expert system. Proposed approach employs a popular machine-learning algorithm along with a method for forming a finite number of features or conjuncts of at most n primitive attributes. Illustrates this procedure by examining qualitative information represented in a set of consumer survey responses typically used to create measures of consumer confidence. (PEN)

Describes Aran, a knowledge-based system designed to help users deal with problems related to Unix operation. Highlights include adaptation to the individual user; user modeling knowledge; stereotypes; content of the individual user model; instantiation, acquisition, and maintenance of the individual model; dynamic acquisition of objective and subjective facts; and maintenance. (JAK)

This study of 40 undergraduates examined whether aiding as cognitive support (i.e., offering computer users knowledge they are missing) can supplement lack of knowledge and capacity under tasks with high mental loading, such as dealing with irregularities in process control. Users of a railway traffic control simulator dealt better and faster with irregularities when the computer provided aiding. (PEN)

Using statistical stereotypes may be a means of improving the effectiveness of information-filtering systems that are based on user profiles. Highlights include information and expert systems that use stereotypes, assigning users to stereotypes, integrating stereotypes into a model for information filtering, and future research. (Author/LRW)

Introduces new procedures being used to extract knowledge from databases and discusses rationales for developing knowledge discovery methods. Methods are described for such techniques as classification, clustering, and the detection of deviations from pre-established norms. Examines potential uses of knowledge discovery in the information field. (AEF)

Describes "Diagnosys," a knowledge-based computer diagnostic test of basic mathematical skills developed in the United Kingdom for university students. Highlights include the need for diagnostic testing; the advantages of a computer-based test; question design; and possible future developments. (Author/LRW)

Presents techniques for improving instructional delivery, including encouraging active learning; having empathy for students; mixing theory and practice; and increasing students' motivation. Discusses a Web-based case study on expert systems management and features in the "Information Warfare" multimedia aid. (AEF)

Discusses intelligent filtering systems and describes work in the INFOS (Intelligent News Filtering Organizational System) project designed to automatically categorize data as relevant or irrelevant based on user interests. The filtering is performed by combining keyword-based hill climbing, knowledge-based conceptual representation via WordNet, and partial parsing via index patterns. (Author/LRW)

Maccia's epistemology of intelligent natural systems implies that computer systems must develop qualitative intelligence before knowledge representation and natural language understanding can be achieved. Emotion and sensation--capabilities which computers do not currently possess are vital to the growth of the mind (Stanley I. Greenspan). Computers in education must be viewed as media through which teachers can convey their messages. (Author/AEF)

Describes an interactive technology-based system designed to support special education teachers' problem-solving training for promoting interventional planning. Utilizing the advantages of the expert-system technology in teacher training, the five training stages from case description to intervention planning and evaluation are presented. A sample session illustrates the teachers' patterns of interactions with the system. (Author/CR)

When agricultural innovations are not adopted, there is often a gap between what people know they ought to do and what they do. Extension practice needs to expand from technology transfer. The knowledge systems approach is useful in dealing with the introduction of innovation in increasingly complex and uncertain situations. (SK)

Intelligent tutoring systems (ITS) are educational software based on expert systems that store educational knowledge. This article describes a model for computer-assisted mediation and its application in a prototype multimedia ITS for teaching blind children the recognition and reproduction of Braille signs. This system differs from previous work by giving teachers a major role. (PEN)

Examines whether the technological development of expert systems can be achieved successfully by students in distance instruction, and differences between distance learning and traditional campus education. Results suggest that not only can successful systems development be achieved but that the hands-on aspect of systems development contributes to increased student attention, learning, and sense of achievement. (Author/AEF)

This research model studies the behavioral impacts of consultative knowledge based systems (KBS). A study of graduate students explored to what extent their decisions were affected by user participation in updating the knowledge base; ambiguity of decision setting; routinization of usage; and source credibility of the expertise embedded in the KBS. (65 references) (Author/LRW)