This paper proposes a cognitive model for human procedural skill acquisition based on problem solving in problem spaces and the use of analogs for building the representation of operator semantics. Protocol data of computer-naive subjects learning the EMACS text editor suggests that they use their knowledge of typewriting to decide which commands to use in performing editing tasks. We propose a formal method of analysis that compares operators in two problem spaces (based on postcondition similarity) and generates misconceptions (based on pre- and postcondition differences). Comparing these predicted misconceptions with error data and verbal comments in problem solving episodes validates this analysis.
['Sarah Ann Douglas', 'Thomas P. Moran']
Learning operator semantics by analogy