The Real Estate Agent-Modeling Users By Uncertain Reasoning

Two topics are treated here First, we present a user model pattcrncd after the stereotype approach (Rich, 1979) This model surpasses Rich's model with respect to its greater flexibility in the construction of user profiles, and its trcat,ment of positive and negative arguments. Second, we present an inference machine This machine treats uncertain knowledge in t,he form of evidence for and against the accuracy of a proposition. Assuming a homogeneous user group, systems developers were able to design a system to perform in accordance with the requirements and capabilities assumed for a partirulal type of user (implicit user modeling). With a heterogeneous user group, this is no longer possible. Since self-assessment,s usually render a distorted picture of the user and are not expected in a real consultative dialogue, they should not be specially required in man-machine communication.