This paper proposes Workflow Cognition, a new theory explaining how human expertise dynamically evolves through the interplay of thinking processes and real-world actions, aiming to inform AI systems that model human expertise.

In plain terms

Expertise has traditionally been explained by things like hidden knowledge or repetitive practice. This paper proposes a new idea called "Workflow Cognition" to describe how expertise really develops and changes. It suggests that expertise is not just stored knowledge, but a dynamic system where "Thinking Flow" (our ongoing thoughts, judgments, and reflections) constantly interacts with "Workflow Evolution" (how we adapt our actions and strategies in practice). Through this continuous interaction, expertise emerges and grows over time, meaning it's always evolving, not a static skill. The paper introduces a model for this and aims to help build AI systems that can better understand and represent human expertise.