Discusses how performance technologists, or trainers, can provide more impact in reducing field performance deficiencies by gathering feedback from the field regarding training matters. A feedback generator is described that is expressed in terms of an algorithm and helps point to solutions to improve productivity. (LRW)

On the basis of analytical and observational work during Phase 1 of this project, an experiment was developed to test the effects of systematic variations in the level of the independent variable "instructional cue" (I.C.). The first phase of the research consisted of the development of a precise operational definition of the variable. This was…

Presents a theoretical rationale for employing a form of information retrieval algorithm that helps searchers better navigate through large document collections by continually revising probability estimates for document subsets. The algorithm avoids assumptions of index term independence and predicts relevance more accurately with increasing…

Discussion of the problem of control in documentary information retrieval (IR) systems focuses on feedback mechanisms. Information needs are discussed, particularly the Problem Oriented Information Need (POIN); the structure of an adaptive IR system is described; and the design of algorithms for automated IR systems is explained. (33 references)…

Presents a coordination level matching algorithm to be used in document retrieval systems that incorporate relevance feedback strategies. It is argued that this algorithm may eliminate the need for the frequent reevaluation of documents that is currently found in such systems, and conditions under which reranking is unnecessary are given.…

Describes the three subsystems of an information retrieval system (document descriptions, queries, and matching algorithms) and argues that the interdependency of these subsystems requires adaptation for the system to perform when any component changes. An algorithm for redescribing documents, in response to changes in queries and retrieval rules,…

Discusses the design of multiversion information retrieval systems and provides a theoretical justification for the necessity of creating such systems to perform an optimal search for the user's information needs. Topics discussed include comparing query formulations; feedback algorithms; an experiment with a test collection; and the mechanism of…

Proposes approach to integrating Boolean and statistical systems where Boolean queries are interpreted as a means of specifying term dependencies in relevant set of documents. Highlights include series of retrieval experiments designed to test retrieval strategy based on term dependence model and relation of results to other work. (18 references)…

Computerized adaptive (CA) testing uses an algorithm to match examinee ability to item difficulty, while self-adapted (SA) testing allows the examinee to choose the difficulty of his or her items. Research comparing SA and CA testing has shown that examinees experience lower anxiety and improved performance with SA testing. All previous research…

The twenty-second in a series, this report describes research in information organization and retrieval conducted by the Department of Computer Science at Cornell University. The report covers work carried out during the period summer 1972 through summer 1974 and is divided into four parts: indexing theory, automatic content analysis, feedback…

Evaluates and compares two recently proposed automatic methods for relevance feedback of Boolean queries (Dillon method, which uses probabilistic approach as basis, and disjunctive normal form method). Conclusions are drawn concerning the use of effective feedback methods in a Boolean query environment. Nineteen references are included. (EJS)

Effects of previous training and experience in peer tutoring on student interactions were studied for 16 elementary school classes. Student dyads with experience and training in peer tutoring provided more interactional explanations and incorporated sounder instructional principles. In both situations, student explanations tended to be algorithmic…