Lern- und suchtheoretische Aspekte neuen technischen Wissens

Abstract

Learn Theoretical and Search Theoretical Aspects of New Technical Knowledge

New technical knowledge is explained as the outcome of learning processes and search behavior. A stimulus-sample model is constructed from some basic axioms. Learning is defined as a change in the conditioning of a stimulus-sample to a specific reaction. A learning curve is derived that describes the learning process as a change in the absolute probability of an actor for a specific reaction. In a learning model an actor requires new knowledge by discovering a feed back of reality on his goal realization. This feed back can also be searched for systematically. New technical knowledge then becomes a result of a search process. The determinants of search behavior are discussed. The search result depends on (]) the problem structure of reality, (2) the existing stock of knowledge, (3) the amount of search resources used and (4) the timing of the search means. The formal structure of a search problem is discussed and the search for new technical knowledge is compared to military search problems. Whereas learning is not anticipated, searching is a planned process. Over the phases of economic development learning processes are substituted by search behavior. A complete substitution is, however, unlikely. First, both approaches refer to different phenomena. Thus, in the air plane industry, the search strategy of parallel development is used; and in the same industry learning occurs in the construction of air frames, i.e. with a rising number of air frames constructed the time requirement per air frame decreases. Second, a comprehensive anticipation of problem solution through search cannot be expected due to lacking information on the future. Third, learning can take place in the process of search. - The article discussed the economic implications of the learn theoretical and search theoretical explanations of new technical knowledge