Knowledge-based systems
Not offered in 1995
6 points * 3 hours per week * First semester * Peninsula * Prerequisites: CFR1252 or equivalent * Prohibitions: CFR3062, SYS3060, SYS3064
This subject provides the student with a detailed understanding of knowledge-based systems (expert systems). In particular the following topics will be covered: the nature of unstructured work environments; the expert domain; knowledge-based systems for decision support; fundamentals of knowledge-based systems; knowledge representation with particular emphasis on production rules; inference and control structures; representation of uncertainty; tools for knowledge engineering; the process of developing a knowledge-based system; integration with organisational information systems. Assessment will include the development of a small knowledge-based system using a rule-based shell (VP-Expert) to illustrate the concepts presented in lectures. Students will be expected to spend a significant amount of personal study time early in the semester learning the software and developing skills in formulating rule-based systems. There will be two practical assignments, each of which must be accompanied by a written report of at least 1500 words.
Assessment
Examination (3 hours): 50% * Practical work: 50%
Prescribed texts
Baur G and Pigford D V Expert systems for business: Concepts and applications Boyd and Fraser, 1990
Smith H G Class notes for SYS3060 Dept Information Systems, Monash U, 1993
Recommended texts
Harmon P and Sawyer B Creating expert systems for business and industry Wiley, 1990