DyKOr: a method for generating the content of explanations in knowledge systems

摘要

The paper presents a methodology for improving the organization of knowledge bases and demonstrates its application for generating the content of explanations. The DyKOr (Dynamic Knowledge Organization) method combines information that is usually available through execution traces with existing domain knowledge using techniques from machine learning including knowledge compilation, explanation-based learning, and conceptual clustering. These techniques allow the separation of the knowledge needed to solve a problem from that which is not required, and the identification of information that is related to the problem but is not explicitly stated. Thus, the analysis performed through the methodology can considerably improve the quality and content of explanations.The paper describes the implementation of the methodology and how it can be integrated into typical rule-based expert systems. Illustrations of how the method can be used to produce the content for explanations are presented in the context of typical consultation and problem solving expert systems. A discussion of how the information produced by the method can be used to prepare explanations for users with different levels of expertise is also presented.