Now showing 1 - 10 of 1270
  • Publication
    Efficient entity resolution for large heterogeneous information spaces
    ( 2011)
    Papadakis, G.
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    Loannou, E.
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    Niederée, C.
    ;
    Fankhauser, P.
    We have recently witnessed an enormous growth in the volume of structured and semi-structured data sets available on the Web. An important prerequisite for using and combining such data sets is the detection and merge of information that describes the same real-world entities, a task known as Entity Resolution. To make this quadratic task efficient, blocking techniques are typically employed. However, the high dynamics, loose schema binding, and heterogeneity of (semi-)structured data, impose new challenges to entity resolution. Existing blocking approaches become inapplicable because they rely on the homogeneity of the considered data and a-priory known schemata. In this paper, we introduce a novel approach for entity resolution, scaling it up for large, noisy, and heterogeneous information spaces. It combines an attribute-agnostic mechanism for building blocks with intelligent block processing techniques that boost blocks with high expected utility, propagate knowledg e about identified matches, and preempt the resolution process when it gets too expensive. Our extensive evaluation on real-world, large, heterogeneous data sets verifies that the suggested approach is both effective and efficient. Copyright 2011 ACM.
  • Publication
    Context-oriented communication and the design of computer-supported discursive learning
    ( 2008)
    Herrmann, T.
    ;
    Kienle, A.
    Computer-supported discursive learning (CSDL) systems for the support of asynchronous discursive learning need to fulfil specific socio-technical conditions. To understand these conditions, we employed design experiments combining aspects of communication theory, empirical findings, and continuous improvement of the investigated prototypes. Our theoretical perspective starts with a context-oriented model of communication which is-as a result of the experiments-extended by including the role of a third-party such as a facilitator. The theory-driven initial design requirements lead to the CSCL-prototype, KOLUMBUS, emphasizing the role of annotations. In KOLUMBUS, annotations can be immediately embedded in their context of learning material. Practical experience with the prototype in five cases reveals possibilities for implementing improvements and observing their impact. On this basis, we provide guidelines for the design of CSDL systems that focus on the support of asyn chronous discursive learning.
  • Publication
  • Publication
    A service architecture for context awareness and reaction provisioning
    ( 2007)
    Silva Santos, L.O.B. da
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    Ramparany, F.
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    Costa, P.D.
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    Vink, P.
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    Etter, R.
    ;
    Broens, T.
    Context awareness has emerged as an important element in distributed computing. It offers mechanisms allowing applications to be aware of their environment and enabling them to adjust their behavior to the current context. In order to keep track of the relevant context information, a flexible service mechanism should be available for the client applications. In this paper we present a service architecture to provide context-awareness capabilities to users and client applications. Moreover, the service is able to react depending on the user's preferences and context. The conditions for the reaction and the reaction itself are defined in rules the users submit to the service by means of a convenient rule language.
  • Publication
    Lies and propaganda
    ( 2007)
    Mehta, B.
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    Hofmann, T.
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    Fankhauser, P.
  • Publication
    A tangible user interface for multi-user awareness systems
    ( 2007)
    Etter, R.
    ;
    Röcker, C.
    In this paper a music-based awareness system called 'Social Radio' is presented. The system focuses on small intimate groups and enables multiple persons to stay in touch using smart artifacts and tangible interaction mechanisms.