Teaching mineral-identification skills using an expert system computer program incorporating digitized video images

J. A. Diemer, W. B. Frakes, P. B. Gandel, C. J. Fox

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

The similarity of mineral classification keys to decision trees prompted us to develop an expert system (MINID) for the purpose of teaching novices mineral identification skills. Physical geology students preferred MINID with pictures over two other mineral identification aids (classification key and MINID without pictures). This is probably because the images enhanced their ability to recognize minerals. Students also reported that both versions of the MINID program forced them to more closely and systematically observe mineral properties. The short-comings in MINID (both with and without pictures) compared to the classification key include the longer time required to identify an unknown mineral and a slightly lower success ratio. -from Authors

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)121-127
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of Geological Education
Volume37
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1989
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Environmental Science
  • General Earth and Planetary Sciences

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Teaching mineral-identification skills using an expert system computer program incorporating digitized video images'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this