CS5604, Unit IF
Edward A. Fox
Department of Computer Science
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg VA 24061-0106
Abstract:
Almost all commercially available information retrieval
systems allow users to submit Boolean queries. These,
along with many of the research systems, use inverted
files to aid in query processing. To better understand
these systems, we consider inverted files and methods to
create them, as discussed in Chapter 3. The actual
processing of Boolean queries involves operations on
sets (that are identified from the inverted file), which
are discussed in Chapter 12. Finally, in Chapter 15 we
consider extensions to Boolean query processing that has
been shown in research studies to yield significantly
higher precision at all levels of recall.
This Unit deals with three chapters and one laboratory
exercise. In addition, there is one optional reading, for
those with particular interest in extended Boolean
retrieval methods. Class time will be devoted primarily
to questions and individual work. In addition there will be
a videotape presentation shown September 13 on WAIS, the Wide Area
Information Service.