View article

A global definition of user models is presented and the characteristics which define a particular form of model (an ‘embedded user model’) are highlighted and discussed. The distinctions between various forms of conceptual, application and student models are described and examined. These definitions are located within a general categorisation of user modelling techniques, based on implementation methodology, and on ‘ownership’ of the model itself. An extensive literature review of recent research in modelling techniques is referenced and a number of techniques described. The architecture of embedded user models is contrasted to that of User Interface Management Systems and an outline design specification for a system encompassing such a model is proposed.