A context-sensitive, iterative approach to diagnostic problem solving

In domains where the knowledge is not represented by strong theories or where the problems are to be solved with incomplete information, problem solving needs to be a context sensitive process. This paper presents a task-centered methodology that we used when modelling the context in a diagnostic process. We identify two aspects of the notion of context as important: its role and its elements. We argue that a systematic investigation of the notion of context needs to be organised along these two aspects. Regarding the role that the context play we distinguish between two basic issues. These are related to its role in shifting the focus of attention, and in capturing the focus of attention. We discuss a diagnostic problem solving model, referred to as context-sensitive iterative diagnosis (ConSID) approach which is particularly appropriate for open and weak domains. We presented an implementation of this approach as a hybrid case-based and explanation-based reasoning system.