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2025 5 marks Extended response Software Automation (Year 12) Patterns in human behaviour; neural networks (virtual personal assistant)

NESA 2025 HSC Software Engineering exam (online) - Marking Guidelines

An airline introduces a virtual personal assistant as an initial support contact point for cancelled flights, missed connections, or lost luggage. The virtual personal assistant uses a neural network to: analyse support queries to direct customers to the appropriate department; recommend appropriate tone and wording to be used by the human customer support representative; assess data such as support turnaround time, customer ratings, and repeat contacts. Explain how the neural network supports the virtual personal assistant. Include ONE positive and ONE negative impact of using the virtual personal assistant. (5 marks)

Marking criteria

5: Explains how the neural network supports the VPA AND includes one positive AND one negative impact. 4: Explains how the NN supports the VPA OR outlines how it supports the VPA and includes one positive AND one negative impact. 3: Outlines features of a neural network AND/OR impacts. 2: Outlines a feature of a neural network OR an impact, OR identifies features/impacts. 1: Some relevant information.

Sample answer

Neural networks recognise natural language patterns to categorise common support queries, such as lost luggage, and use nodes to assist with processing. They assess language tone to gauge frustration or urgency, allowing the virtual personal assistant to recommend specific phrasing for customer service staff. For instance, calming language may be suggested for distressed customers. By tracking customer ratings and turnaround times, the neural network uses weightings to refine recommendations to prioritise high-frequency queries or improve suggestions for poorly rated interactions. While this system streamlines support processes and improves response accuracy, it may also impact the role of customer service staff. As the neural network learns from interactions, staff may rely more on its recommendations, potentially reducing their familiarity with emerging query trends or response strategies. Customers may come to expect faster, more precise service, raising the standard for human interactions.

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