Conceptual models for automatic generation of knowledge-acquisition tools

Abstract

Interactive knowledge-acquisition (KA) programs allow users to enter relevant domain knowledge according to a model predefined by the tool developers. KA tools are designed to provideconceptual modelsof the knowledge to their users. Many different classes of models are possible, resulting in different categories of tools. Whenever it is possible to describe KA tools according to explicit conceptual models, it is also possible to edit the models and to instantiate new KA tools automatically for specialized purposes. Severalmeta-toolsthat address this task have been implemented. Meta-tools provide developers of domain-specific KA tools with generic design models, ormeta-views, of the emerging KA tools. The same KA tool can be specified according to several alternative meta-views.