Using critics to empower users

Abstract

We describe the critiquing approach to building knowledge-based interactive systems. Critiquing supports computer users in their problem solving and learning activities. The challenges for the next generation of knowledge-based systems provide a context for the development of this paradigm. We discuss critics from the perspective of overcoming the problems of high-functionality computer systems, of providing a new class of systems to support learning, of extending applicationsoriented construction kits to design environments, and of providing an alternative to traditional autonomous expert systems. One of the critiquing systems we have built -JANUS, a critic for architectural design -is used as an example of the key aspects of the critiquing process. We also survey additional critiquing systems developed in our and other research groups. KEYWORDS:critics, critiquing, high-functionality computer systems, inteIJigent support systems, design environments, cooperative problem solving systems. Using Critics to Empower Users ABSTRACTWe describe the critiquing approach to building knowledge-based interactive systems. Critiquing supports computer users in their problem solving and learning activities. The challenges for the next generation of knowledge-based systems provide a context for the development of this paradigm. We discuss critics from the perspective of overcoming the problems of highfunctionality computer systems, of providing a new class of systems to support learning, of extending applicationsoriented construction kits to design environments, and of providing an alternative to traditional autonomous expert systems. One of the critiquing systems we have built -JANUS, a critic for architectural design -is used as an example of the key aspects of the critiquing process. We also survey additional critiquing systems developed in our and other research groups.

End-User Privacy in Human-Computer Interaction

“…The concept of Privacy Critics brings the user back in the loop. Critics are agents that help guide the user in making good choices [4] and were introduced by Fischer et al in the context of software design [103]. Rather than automating decisions, Privacy Critics warn the user when an exchange of personal data is going to happen.…”

Supporting Collaborative Privacy‐Observant Information Sharing Using RFID‐Tagged Objects

“…Additionally, critics [61][62][63]intelligent agents to reduce cognitive load required for boundary regulation-were incorporated. Figure 5 shows a user interface mock-up that demonstrates the design features.…”

Inferring what a user is not interested in

“…For example, the critics [Silverman and Mazher,1992] in Fischer's design environment [Fischer et al,1990] are daemons: each critic recognizes certain types of flaws in the user's current design (e.g. violations of design constraints) and draws these to the user's attention (possibly also suggesting corrections).…”