ABSTRACT
Format of cases The format of the case-base was hidden in the initial implementation. When the VP identified a match, relevant cases were linked to current discussions. With the advent of ,keypoints-digest' the case-base will be open to those who are interested. However, the VP will continue to link cases from this with relevant discussions (see retrieval subsection below). Retrieval The retrieval algorithm is automatic. In addition the case-base will be opened to manual searching by the students, and the tutors will have control over the automatic retrieval algorithm. We are also thinking of introducing a refractory period - a time of waiting between the triggering of a message and its actually being sent. The intention here is to allow other development of the discussion to occur before the VP joins in - this would also permit the use of an 'approval' mechanism whereby the tutors are notified of the pending message and have the choice of interceding.
