Semantic Analysis Approach to Studying Design Problem Solving

Abstract

To objectively and quantitatively study transcribed protocols of design problem solving conversations, we propose a semantic analysis approach based on dynamic semantic networks of nouns constructed with WordNet 3.1 lexical database. We examined the applicability of the semantic approach focused on a dynamic evaluation of the design problem solving process in educational settings. Using a case of real- world design problem-solving conversations, we show that the approach is able to determine the time dynamics of semantic factors such as level of abstraction, polysemy or information content, and quantify convergence/divergence of semantic similarity in design conversations between students, instructors and real clients. The approach can also be used to evaluate the aforementioned semantic factors for successful and unsuccessful ideas generated in the process of design problem solving, or to assess the effect of external feedback on the developed design solution. The proposed semantic analysis approach allows fast computation of the semantic factors in real time thereby demavonstrating a potential for both monitoring and support of the design problem solving process.

Virtual Reality for Neurorehabilitation and Cognitive Enhancement

“…As with every tool, the quality of its use depends on the intentions of the user. Augmented reality provides easy access to vast amounts of computer-stored data, which is an ideal way to enhance users’ creative problem-solving and decision-making [ 203 , 204 , 205 , 206 ]. VR could easily simulate any specific physical environment, such as a mountain [ 207 ], a forest [ 208 ], a beach [ 209 ], or a savannah [ 210 ], which could evoke positive emotions and hence improve cognitive abilities.…”

Semantic Analysis of Engineering Design Conversations

“…For the construction of semantic networks, noun senses were not disambiguated. The main justification for this decision is that the nouns employed in the description of creative design ideas may acquire new senses different from dictionary-defined ones (Georgiev and Georgiev, 2019). In addition, the polysemy of nouns may be instrumental in the association of ideas, which were not considered to be related previously (Taura and Nagai, 2013;Georgiev and Taura, 2014).…”