Computer Therapist Module Map

Purpose  To demonstrate (in a limited way) some principles of active listening and artificial intelligence by having the computer simulate a Rogerian person-centered therapist.

Summary  The module opens with some historical information about the famous ELIZA program. Then the student begins an open-ended conversation with the computer therapist. The "therapist" responds in a more-or-less realistic fashion, by identifying key words or phrases in the student's conversation and then generating a nonjudgmental reply that reflects the student's feelings. When the student exits the conversational mode, the module addresses some of the limitations of computer therapy. This module uses text only, and it can be run on an MS-DOS without a graphics card.
Introduction
   The approach
   Your role
   The rules
The therapy session
Some cautions
   Limitations
   Benefits
   Expressing feelings
 		References


Click here to open the worksheet that accompanies this module. (Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader. Click here to get Adobe Acrobat Reader. Internet connection required to download plug-in.)