Channelling, Coordinating, Collaborating: A Three-Layer Framework for Disability-Centered Human-Agent Collaboration
Summary: arXiv:2603.26252v1 Announce Type: cross
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a cornerstone in enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Traditionally, AI accessibility tools have been designed for individual use, primarily focusing on helping one person overcome specific functional barriers. However, many individuals with disabilities often accomplish complex tasks through collaboration with others who bring complementary skills and abilities. In light of this, we propose a three-layer framework—Channelling, Coordinating, and Co-Creating—that rethinks the role of AI in ability-diverse collaboration.
The Importance of Collaboration
The need for collaborative efforts in the realm of disability isn’t merely a matter of convenience; it is essential for effective problem-solving and task completion. People with disabilities often rely on a network of collaborators, whether they are caregivers, family members, or peers with different abilities, to accomplish tasks that might be challenging to navigate alone. This collaborative approach not only enriches the experience but also fosters shared understanding and respect among participants.
The Three Layers of the Framework
The proposed framework consists of three interconnected layers:
- Channelling: This layer focuses on establishing a shared informational ground across different abilities. It emphasizes the importance of communication and understanding among collaborators, ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding the task at hand.
- Coordinating: In this layer, the AI acts as a mediator, facilitating workflows between collaborators with differing abilities. This involves managing task assignments, timelines, and ensuring that each participant can contribute effectively, thus enhancing overall productivity.
- Co-Creating: The final layer sees AI contributing as a bounded partner towards shared goals. In this role, AI tools can assist in the creative process, providing insights, suggestions, and support that align with the collective objectives of the group.
Theoretical Foundations
This framework is grounded in several key theories:
- Ability-Diverse Collaboration Framework: This framework emphasizes the strengths and capabilities of individuals with disabilities, advocating for a model of collaboration that values diverse skill sets.
- Grounding Theory: This theory pertains to how individuals establish shared understanding during communication, which is crucial for effective collaboration.
- Carlile’s 3T Framework: This framework addresses the processes of translating, transferring, and transforming knowledge, relevant for understanding how collaborative efforts can be optimized.
Conclusion
By centering the collaborative, interdependent ways in which people with disabilities already work, the Channelling, Coordinating, and Co-Creating framework extends the vision of “agents as remote collaborators.” It highlights the potential for AI to not only support individuals but also to enhance collaborative efforts, ensuring that tasks are approached with a holistic understanding of the diverse abilities within a team. As AI continues to evolve, embracing such frameworks will be essential for fostering inclusive and effective collaboration.