A comprehension-based model of exploration

  • Authors:
  • Muneo Kitajima;Peter G. Polson

  • Affiliations:
  • National Institute of Bioscience and Human-Technology, Higashi Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan;Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO

  • Venue:
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Year:
  • 1997

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Abstract

The linked model of comprehension-based action planning and instruction taking (LICAI) simulates performing by exploration tasks using applications hosted on systems with graphical user interfaces. The tasks are given to the user as written exercises containing no information about the correct action sequences. LICAI's comprehension and action-planning processes are based on Kintsch's construction-integration (C-I) theory for text comprehension. The model assumes that comprehending instructions is a strategic process; instruction texts must be elaborated using specialized strategres that guide goal generation. LICAI comprehends the instructions and generates goals that are then stored in memory. The action-planning processes are controlled by goals retrieved from memory. Representations of goals that can guide exploration are restricted by the C-I architecture. The model predicts that successful exploration requires linking of the goal representation with the label on the correct object. The model is evaluated by comparing its predictions with results from an experimental study of learning by exploration by Franzke (1994, 1995). We discuss the implications of LICAI for designing instruction materials and interfaces that facilitate exploration.