Here is a list of common terms associated with knowledge bases and knowledge based

systems (KBS). 

 Backward Chaining: A reasoning method used in knowledge based systems to

extract data (the opposite of forward chaining). In backward chaining, the
program begins with a list of goals, and identifies consequents that meet those
goals. It then meets the antecedent to see if data supports the consequences.
 Computational Intelligence: A type of AI system that uses numerical, implicit
knowledge models. 
 Domain Expert: The human expert in a particular area, whose knowledge is
used to create the knowledge base. A domain expert can also be called a subject
matter expert (SME).
 Expert System: A type of knowledge based system that targets the specific
knowledge of one or more domain experts. This computer system solves
problems by emulating the specific processes of the expert. 
 Explicit Knowledge: Knowledge that can be easily codified and transferred to
another human.
 Forward Chaining: A reasoning method used in knowledge based systems to
extract data. Forward chaining solves problems by looking at the available data
and using inference rules to extract other information. For example, forward
chaining would search a KBS until it meets the antecedent, and uses that
information to conclude the consequent.
 Heuristic Knowledge: Knowledge based on cause-and-effect reasoning and
used in most knowledge based systems. It can be less precise than algorithms,
but is better at emulating human decision-making and problem-solving.
 Implicit Knowledge: In contrast to explicit knowledge, implicit knowledge is
more difficult to codify and transfer. 
 Inference Engine: The “brain” of a KBS that uses logical assertions and
conditions to solve problems and derive information.
 Knowledge Base: The actual knowledge stored as ontologies within a KBS.
 Knowledge Engineer: The person responsible for translating the domain
expert’s human knowledge into codified, computer-usable and human-
understandable knowledge. 
 Model-Based Reasoning: A type of inference method used in expert systems,
based on causal rules.
 Semantic Web: An extension of the world wide web that tags, classifies, and
links data and information so that a computer can easily read and access it. 
 User Interface: The front-end of a KBS where users interact with the system. 
 Web Content Management: Discipline that arose with the advent of the internet,
when traditional knowledge bases could no longer support all the types of
information that needed to be stored.