Ontology Based Queries - Investigating a Natural Language Interface

In this paper we look at what may be learned from a comparative study examining non-technical users with a background in social science browsing and querying metadata. Four query tasks were carried out with a natural language interface and with an interface that uses a web paradigm with hyperlinks. While it can be difficult to attribute differences in performance to specific design features, a qualitative analysis of the user behavior provides some insight into the task and problematic aspects of existing interfaces. In general it was found that casual subjects have difficulties recognizing typical ontology based concepts like objects, attributes and values

Reasoning & Querying – State of the Art

Various query languages for Web and Semantic Web data, both for practical use and as an area of research in the scientific community, have emerged in recent years. At the same time, the broad adoption of the internet where keyword search is used in many applications, e.g. search engines, has familiarized casual users with using keyword queries to retrieve information on the internet. Unlike this easy-to-use querying, traditional query languages require knowledge of the language itself as well as of the data to be queried. Keyword-based query languages for XML and RDF bridge the gap between the two, aiming at enabling simple querying of semi-structured data, which is relevant e.g. in the context of the emerging Semantic Web. This article presents an overview of the field of keyword querying for XML and RDF

Diagrammatic-based Query Formulator

Database is a valuable asset of any organization. Working with database has become more and more frequent and necessary. Unfortunately, the current applications only support users with text-based queries which users have to input manually. No ad-hoc queries can be done unless the application user has some knowledge of SQL Queries. Consequently, this web-based application is developed as a tool for users to easily manipulate database. This application will present database as structured diagrams. This will allow users to have a concise and clear view of database. Besides, this application also supports real-time interaction, which will enable users to query the database interactively and visually. As a consequence, less time and effort will spent on querying database to get the required data

Developing a user-cordial online retrieval model strategy to access extension educational materials from a north central region database

There is concern that the Cooperative Extension Service (CES) is not implementing electronic communication technologies rapidly enough to effectively compete with other information providers. Anxiety regarding electronic information-accessing strategies must be overcome with appropriate orientation and training so their use becomes routine. Extension personnel need an efficient, easy-to-use method of accessing online data-base in order to comply with the CES mission of assisting people in improving their lives. The purpose of this study was to extend the existing North Central Region Educational Materials Project (NCREMP) information search system by developing an online search strategy that is an easily-used tool for Extension personnel seeking information from electronic sources, and to examine characteristics that promote positive adoption of electronic communication systems among Extension workers. QUERRI is intended to serve as a model for future design of online search strategies relevant to CES professionals;A descriptive approach of a qualitative nature was taken in developing the search strategy. The study was concerned with conditions and practices currently existing in CES--the restructuring that is going on, attitudes held by Extension employees toward electronic information technology, expectations in the usage of such technology, and the effects these expectations have induced. Areas investigated prior to development of the search model were: (1) The level of awareness and use of the NCREMP data-base among CES personnel. (2) The use of online searching systems. (3) The degree of familiarity and acceptance of computer use and computer-based information searching strategies among CES staff;A conceptual framework was formulated before development of the search model that attempted to simulate the intuitive reasoning processes used by an individual in need of information for a specific purpose. The chief emphasis in development of the search model was in ease of use. A questionnaire distributed to CES personnel showed evidence of a lack of awareness of the NCREMP search service, and low understanding of how to search online data-bases. Selected responses helped to focus scripting of menus and Help screens on user-cordiality to ensure positive adoption and implementation of the search model