Linguistic Modeling of Dialogue Management
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Yukinori TAKUBO
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Faculty of Literature, Kyushu University<P>
6-19-1 Higashiku, Fukuoka 812, Japan<P>
e-mail:f77504a@kyu-cc.cc.kyushu-u.ac.jp
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    We attempt to construct a performance model of speech, modeling
the nature of operations the speaker/hearer performs in speech
recognition and interpretation, with the limitation of memory and
various distracting factors impeding ideal delivery and perception. 
For this purpose, we have developed a theory of discourse management,
a version of Mental Space Theory, modified to accomodate dialogic
discourse by incorporating a memory management system.

   We posit a cognitive interface between linguistic expression and
knowledge-base. This interface contains pointers or indices linked to
addresses in the knowledge base, controlling access paths to the data
in the base. It also functions as working memory buffer for the
production and interpretation of utterances. Thus the interface
controls the input- output operations in speech. Utterances in a
dialogue exchange can be redefined as input-output operations via this
interface: registering, searching, editing, etc.

   We hypothesize that there are overt reflections of these mental
operations in the forms of discourse particles such as interjections
and fillers. We assume that they work as mental monitoring devices for
these discourse management operations, thereby supporting the speaker
in the speech performance within the limit of memory resources and
various distracting factors.

   We have collected natural spoken data and examined the nature of
discourse management operations by analyzing the uses of various
discourse particles and interjections, within the model proposed in
this study.
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Keywords: discourse markers, fillers, performance model, mental monitor,
discourse management<P>