Linguistic analysis of natural language communication with computers

Interaction with computers in natural requires a language that is flexible suited to the task. This study of natural was undertaken to reveal those characteristics can make computer English more . Experiments were made in three modes communication: face-to-face, terminal-to-terminal human-to-computer, involving over 80 subjects, over 80,000 words and over 50 . They showed some striking similarities, in sentence length and proportion of in sentences. The three modes also share use of fragments, typical of dialogue. statistical analysis and comparisons given. The nature and relative frequency of , which have been classified into categories, is shown in all modes. Special of the face-to-face mode due largely to these fragments (which phatics employed to keep the channel of open). Special characteristics of computational mode include other fragments, definitions, which are absent from other . Inclusion of fragments in computational is considered a major factor in improving naturalness. majority of experiments involved a real task of loading Navy cargo ships. The of face-to-face mode were similar this task to results of earlier experiments another task. It was found that in oriented situations the syntax of interactions influenced in all modes by this context the direction of simplification, resulting in sentences (about 7 words long). Users to maximize efficiency In solving the problem. given a chance, in the computational , to utilize special devices facilitating solution of the problem, they all resort to . of the special characteristics of computational mode, including the analysis the subjects" errors, provide guidance for improvement of the habitability of such systems. availability of the REL System, a performance natural language system, made experiments possible and meaningful. The improvements in habitability are now embodied in the POL (Problem Oriented ) System, a successor to REL.