User modeling in intelligent information retrieval

The issue of exploiting user modeling techniques in the framework of cooperative interfaces to complex artificial systems has recently received increasing attention. In this paper we present the IR-NLI II system, an expert interface that allows casual users to access online information retrieval systems and encompasses user modeling capabilities. More specifically, an illustration of the user modeling subsystem is given by describing the organization of the user model proposed for the particular application area, together with its use during system operation. The techniques utilized for the construction of the model are presented as well. They are based on the use of stereotypes, which are descriptions of typical classes of users. More specifically, they include both declarative and procedural knowledge for describing the features of the class to which the stereotype is related, for assigning a user to that class, and for acquiring and validating the necessary information during system operation.