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Contributions within Discipline: Metadata reconciliation and integration has been studied for a long time by the database and other research communities. The traditional approach uses mediation systems to reformulate user queries to reconcile metadata differences based on previously known correspondences and relationships in the metadata. This approach has not been widely successful because it requires mediation agreements that are difficult to build and maintain. A more recent approach is to define 'standard' metadata but the creation of these standards can be a lengthy process that lags behind the speed at which heterogeneity in metadata gets created. The results and experiences so far in developing and using the novel approach have been positive. However, more work needs to be done to make definitive conclusions on the viability and usefulness of the new approach. Work on the project has so far resulted in one masters thesis; one additional masters thesis and two doctoral dissertations (all in computer information systems) are under way. Work on the project is having a positive impact on the newly created masters thesis option for the MS major in computer information systems and the IT track of the CIS doctoral program: the project is offering thesis and dissertation topics in addressing the problem of semantic interoperability that has become a critical problem especially with the wide use of the Internet and has applications in many domains. The masters degree program in computer information systems at Georgia State University is currently undergoing a major revision and this project is influencing the design of the revamped program and the content of courses dealing with Middleware. |