A Knowledge Level Approach to Collaborative Problem Solving

Abstract

This paper proposes, characterizes and outlines the benefits of a new computer level specifically for multi-agent problem solvers. This level is called the cooperation knowledge level and involves describing and developing richer and more explicit models of common social phenomena. We then focus on one particular form of social interaction in which groups of agents decide they wish to work together, in a collaborative manner, to tackle a common problem. A domain independent model (called joint responsibility) is developed to describe how participants should behave during such problem solving. Particular emphasis is placed on the problem of ensuring coherent behaviour in the face of unpredictable and dynamic environments. The utility of this model is highlighted in the real-world environment of electricity transportation management. In this domain, agents have to make decisions using partial, imprecise views of the system and the inherent dynamics of the problem mean that team members have to continually evaluate the ongoing problem solving process. Joint responsibility provides the evaluation criteria and the causal link to behaviour upon which individual and social situation assessment is based.

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