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User modeling in dialog systems: Potentials and hazards

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Abstract

In order to be capable of exhibiting a wide range of cooperative behavior, a computer-based dialog system must have available assumptions about the current user's goals, plans, background knowledge and (false) beliefs, i.e., maintain a so-called “user model”. Apart from cooperativity aspects, such a model is also necessary for intelligent coherent dialog behavior in general. This article surveys recent research on the problem of how such a model can be constructed, represented and used by a system during its interaction with the user. Possible applications, as well as potential problems concerning the advisability of application, are then discussed. Finally, a number of guidelines are presented which should be observed in future research to reduce the risk of a potential misuse of user modeling technology.

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  1. SFB 314: AI — Knowledge-Based Systems, Department of Computer Science, University of Saarbrücken, West Germany

    Alfred Kobsa

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Kobsa, A. User modeling in dialog systems: Potentials and hazards. AI & Soc 4, 214–231 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01889941

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