Inferring User Expertise for Adaptive Interfaces

A technique based on two heuristic rules for inferring expertise is demonstrated by inferring user expertise in word-processing tasks. The heuristic rules were translated into practice by examining command frequencies and requests for on-line help from the 12 participants in the study who were engaged in personal word-processing tasks. These variables were found to be related to word-processing expertise. A scoring rule derived from these variables ranged from 71% to 87% correct in predicting the expertise of the user. The application of this technique to adaptive interfaces that incorporate estimates of user expertise is discussed.