Typical Use of KA Techniques

How and when are the many techniques described above used in a knowledge acquisition project? To illustrate the general process, a simple method will be described. This method starts with the use of natural techniques, then moves to using more contrived techniques. It is summarised as follows.

1. Conduct an initial interview with the expert in order to (a) scope what knowledge is to be acquired, (b) determine what purpose the knowledge is to be put, (c) gain some understanding of key terminology, and (d) build a rapport with the expert. This interview (as with all session with experts) is recorded on either audiotape or videotape.
2. Transcribe the initial interview and analyse the resulting protocol. Create a concept ladder of the resulting knowledge to provide a broad representation of the knowledge in the domain.
3. Use the ladder to produce a set of questions which cover the essential issues across the domain and which serve the goals of the knowledge acquisition project.
4. Conduct a semi-structured interview with the expert using the pre-prepared questions to provide structure and focus.
5. Transcribe the semi-structured interview and analyse the resulting protocol for the knowledge types present. Typically these would be concepts, attributes, values, relationships, tasks and rules.
6. Represent these knowledge elements using the most appropriate knowledge models, e.g. ladders, grids, network diagrams, hypertext, etc. In addition, document anecdotes, illustrations and explanations in a structured manner using hypertext and template headings.
7. Use the resulting knowledge models and structured text with contrived techniques such as laddering, think aloud problem-solving, twenty questions and repertory grid to allow the expert to modify and expand on the knowledge already captured.
8. Repeat the analysis, model building and acquisition sessions until the expert and knowledge engineer are happy that the goals of the project have been realised.
9. Validate the knowledge acquired with other experts, and make modifications where necessary.

Extraído de Knowledge Acquisition