Michael McCurdy

Supporting efficient development of cognitive models at multiple skill levels: exploring recent advances in constraint-based modeling

This paper presents X-PRT, a new cognitive modeling tool supporting activities ranging from interface design to basic cognitive research. X-PRT provides a graphical model development environment for the CORE constraint-based cognitive modeling engine [7,13,21]. X-PRT comprises a novel feature set: (a) it supports the automatic generation of predictive models at multiple skill levels from a single task-specification, (b) it supports a comprehensive set of modeling activities, and (c) it supports compositional reuse of existing cognitive/perceptual/motor skills by transforming high-level, hierarchical task descriptions into detailed performance predictions. Task hierarchies play a central role in X-PRT, serving as the organizing construct for task knowledge, the locus for compositionality, and the cognitive structures over which the learning theory is predicated. Empirical evidence supports the role of task hierarchies in routine skill acquisition.

A constraint satisfaction approach to predicting skilled interactive cognition

In this paper we report a new approach to generating predictions about skilled interactive cognition. The approach, which we call Cognitive Constraint Modeling, takes as input a description of the constraints on a task environment, on user strategies, and on the human cognitive architecture and generates as output a prediction of the time course of interaction. In the Cognitive Constraint Models that we have built this is achieved by encoding the assumptions inherent in CPM-GOMS as a set of constraints and reasoning about them using finite domain constraint satisfaction.

Collaborative knowledge management supporting mars mission scientists

This paper describes the design and deployment of a collaborative software tool, designed for and presently in use on the Mars Exploration Rovers (MER) 2003 mission. Two central questions are addressed. Does collaborative content like that created on easels and whiteboards have persistent value? Can groups of people jointly manage collaboratively created content? Based on substantial quantitative and qualitative data collected during mission operations, it remains difficult to conclusively answer the first question while there is some positive support for the second question. The MER mission provides a uniquely rich data set on the use of collaborative tools.

Planning tools for Mars surface operations: Human-Computer Interaction lessons learned

This paper presents Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) lessons learned over the course of design, development, and operation of activity planning tools on the Mars Exploration Rovers, the Phoenix Mars Lander, and looking ahead to the upcoming Mars Science Laboratory.

Activity Planning for the Phoenix Mars Lander Mission

The Phoenix Mars Mission is the first mission in the NASA Scout Program. As a Scout Mission, Phoenix must be relatively low-cost and yet highly innovative. Likewise, the Ground Data System (GDS) is under similar constraints. Key to the GDS tool development has been the utilization of the Ensemble framework -an open architecture for the development, integration, and deployment of mission operations software. Ensemble has enabled the production of a low-cost, feature-rich tool to support tactical mission activity planning called The Phoenix Science Interface (PSI).