Generalizing the Structure of Explanations in Explanation-Based Learning

Explanation-based learning is a recently developed approach to concept acquisition by computer. In this type of machine learning, a specific problem's solution is generalized into a form that can later be used to solve conceptually similar problems. A number of explanation-based generalization algorithms have been developed. Most do not alter the structure of the explanation of the specific problems--no additional objects nor inference rules are incorporated. Instead, these algorithms generalize by converting constants in the observed example to variables with constraints. However, many important concepts, in order to be properly learned, require that the structure of explanations be generalized. This can involve generalizing such things as the number of entities involved in a concept or the number of times some action is performed. For example, concepts such as momentum and energy conservation apply to arbitrary numbers of physical objects, clearing the top of a desk can require an arbitrary number of object relocations, and setting a table can involve an arbitrary number of guests.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Computer Science

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2014

Author dc:creator

• Shavlik, Jude William

Contributors dc:contributor

• DeJong, Gerald F.

• Education, Technology of
• Artificial Intelligence
• Computer Science

Identifier

(UMI)AAI8815422

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/69590