Modeling Problem-Solving in Natural Settings

Solving problems in natural settings by decision-making and taking action by means of complex technical systems represents difficult tasks for human operators involved, especially in military situations. Obviously, problem-solving tasks in such situations may be supported by knowledgebased systems. For this purpose, knowledge about situations has to be acquired, described, formalized, represented in a computer, and manipulated by suitable problem-solving strategies. The framework presented provides a systematic approach for the design of such knowledge-based support systems for problem-solving in natural settings by an generic description and modeling of dynamic situations as well as of the human problem-solving process itself. For describing and structuring knowledge about natural settings the paradigm of a theatrical performance is used. For describing and structuring knowledge about the human problem-solving process a special task performance matrix has been developed. The application of the proposed model for design and implementation of a knowledge-based user support system and its interface is described using the identification/recognition process in naval air defense as an example.