The research in this proposal addresses the nature of visual problem-solving and its impact on the design of cooperative systems which assist and enhance human performance in complex task environments. The first objective of the project is to extend the cognitive theory of perception and problem-solving interactions, with an emphasis on specific visual problem-solving tasks. More extensive analysis of previously collected protocol data in the field of diagnostic radiology will be carried out, and additional data from a second visual problem-solving application such as geographical information systems will be collected and analyzed as well. The results of this work are expected to lead to an improved model of visual interaction, and a more comprehensive theory of how people use visual information to solve problems. The second objective of the project is to apply this cognitive theory in the development of intelligent interactive systems which provide assistance to human decision-makers in tasks such as medical diagnosis and geographical image interpretation. The design will be incorporated into a number of working prototypes to demonstrate proof of concept as well as to provide practical platforms for testing and evaluation of underlying cognitive principles. The entire research project will be carried out in the context of a comprehensive educational program which emphasizes the development of visual problem-solving aids for several core courses in a newly evolving computer science curriculum.
