USE OF THE CRITICAL DECISION METHOD TO ELICIT EXPERT KNOWLEDGE - A CASE-STUDY IN THE METHODOLOGY OF COGNITIVE TASK-ANALYSIS

The Critical Decision Method (CDM) is an approach to cognitive task an alysis. The method involves multiple-pass event retrospection guided b y probe questions. The CDM has been used in the elicitation of expert knowledge in diverse domains and for applications including system dev elopment and instructional design. The CDM research illustrates the so rts of knowledge representation products that can arise from cognitive task analysis (e.g., Situation Assessment Records, time lines, decisi on requirements). The research also shows how one can approach methodo logical issues surrounding cognitive task analysis, including question s about data quality and method reliability, efficiency, and utility. As cognitive task analysis is used more widely in the elicitation, pre servation, and dissemination of expert knowledge and is used more wide ly as the basis for the design of complex cognitive systems, and as pr ojects move into even more field applications and real-world settings, the issues we discuss become increasingly critical.