Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives At the completion of this subject students should understand the components of a knowledge-based system; be able to critically compare a range of knowledge engineering tools; and be able to develop a small knowledge-based system using a rule-based shell.
Synopsis 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%