First generation expert systems: a review of knowledge acquisition methodologies

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Abstract
This paper reviews a wide range of knowledge acquisition techniques in the context of attempts to achieve a systematic methodology. These have been poorly documented by expert system builders, who are often inclined to overvalue textbooks and the ways experts themselves claim they solve problems. No one method has a universal advantage; each has some value. Techniques should be selected to suit the domain, the task, the expert and the knowledge engineer. Knowledge acquisition involves creating a conceptual model of expert knowledge and reasoning, from analysis of data elicited by these techniques. A survey of the literature indicates increasing emphasis on tools for knowledge acquisition, used directly by experts. Several projects currently directed towards providing a proper epistemological foundation for knowledge acquisition are discussed and compared. None has yet produced a complete epistemologically sound methodology; however, recognition of the need to create a conceptual model at the knowledge level (rather than the symbol level) is an important advance. An extensive bibliography is appended.

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