Grant Proposal Summary

Grant Opportunity

Science of Learning and Augmented Intelligence (SL)

"SL supports potentially transformative research that develops basic theoretical insights and fundamental knowledge about principles, processes, and mechanisms of learning, and about augmented intelligence — how human cognitive function can be augmented through interactions with others or with technology, or through variations in context."

Key Questions (from Grant Announcement)

• How do human interactions with technologies, imbued with artificial intelligence, provide improved human task performance?
• What models best describe the interplay of the individual and collaborative processes that lead to co-creation of knowledge and collective intelligence?
• In what ways do the capacities and constraints of human cognition inform improved methods of human-artificial intelligence collaboration?

Summary

Prior research has shown both the immense potential of human collaboration with large language models and other AI-enhanced technologies to increase human performance and productivity as well as some risk factors that need to be examined. A responsible approach to interaction with this technology will take into account the advantages and risks in order to maximize the benefits while reducing potential harms. Our research identifies both opportunities and pitfalls to highlight best practices for utilizing this nascent technology.

References

• "Impact of artificial intelligence on human loss in decision making, laziness and safety in education"
• "Human Creativity in the Age of LLMs: Randomized Experiments on Divergent and Convergent Thinking"
• "From tools to threats: a reflection on the impact of artificial-intelligence chatbots on cognitive health"
• "Three Challenges for AI-Assisted Decision-Making" - The effects of different design choices for human-AI interaction, including timing of AI assistance and avoiding cognitive overload.