Knowledge Acquisition for Domain Experts

Abstract

Of all the stages of expert systems construction, none is more critical than knowledge acquisition. This is particularly true in instances where domain experts such as civil engineers develop expert systems themselves, rather than calling upon specialist knowledge engineers. The issues involved in knowledge acquisition are examined herein, in an effort to help civil engineers develop complete knowledge bases and thus well‐developed expert systems. The knowledge acquisition techniques used in the development of the expert system CHINA for highway noise barrier design are examined, in order to clearly address the topic.