Uncovering the mechanisms of common ground in human–agent interaction: review and future directions for conversational agent research
Journal
Internet Research
Type
journal article
Date Issued
2026
Author(s)
Research Team
IWI6
Abstract
Purpose
Human–agent interaction (HAI) is increasingly influencing our personal and work lives through the proliferation of conversational agents (CAs) in various domains. As such, these agents combine intuitive natural language interactions by also delivering personalization through artificial intelligence capabilities. However, research on CAs as well as practical failures indicates that CA interaction oftentimes fails miserably. To reduce these failures, this paper introduces the concept of building common ground for more successful HAIs.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on a systematic literature analysis, we identified 38 articles meeting the eligibility criteria. We critically reviewed this body of knowledge within a formal narrative synthesis structured around the use of common ground in the interaction with CAs.
Findings
Based on the systematic review, our analysis reveals five mechanisms for achieving common ground: embodiment, social features, joint action, knowledge base and mental model of conversational agent. We point out the relationships between these mechanisms as they are related to each other in directional and bidirectional ways.
Research limitations/implications
Our findings contribute to theory with several implications for CA research. First, we provide implications about the organization of common ground mechanisms for CAs. Second, we provide insights into the mechanisms and nomological network for achieving common ground when interacting with CAs. Third, we provide a broad research agenda for future CA research that centers around the important topic of common ground for HAI.
Originality/value
We offer novel insights into grounding mechanisms and highlight the potentials when considering common ground in different HAI processes. Consequently, we secure further understanding and deeper insights of possible mechanisms of common ground to shape future HAI processes.
Human–agent interaction (HAI) is increasingly influencing our personal and work lives through the proliferation of conversational agents (CAs) in various domains. As such, these agents combine intuitive natural language interactions by also delivering personalization through artificial intelligence capabilities. However, research on CAs as well as practical failures indicates that CA interaction oftentimes fails miserably. To reduce these failures, this paper introduces the concept of building common ground for more successful HAIs.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on a systematic literature analysis, we identified 38 articles meeting the eligibility criteria. We critically reviewed this body of knowledge within a formal narrative synthesis structured around the use of common ground in the interaction with CAs.
Findings
Based on the systematic review, our analysis reveals five mechanisms for achieving common ground: embodiment, social features, joint action, knowledge base and mental model of conversational agent. We point out the relationships between these mechanisms as they are related to each other in directional and bidirectional ways.
Research limitations/implications
Our findings contribute to theory with several implications for CA research. First, we provide implications about the organization of common ground mechanisms for CAs. Second, we provide insights into the mechanisms and nomological network for achieving common ground when interacting with CAs. Third, we provide a broad research agenda for future CA research that centers around the important topic of common ground for HAI.
Originality/value
We offer novel insights into grounding mechanisms and highlight the potentials when considering common ground in different HAI processes. Consequently, we secure further understanding and deeper insights of possible mechanisms of common ground to shape future HAI processes.
Language
English
Keywords
Common Ground
Conversational Agent
Human-Agent Interaction
Systematic Review
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
Yes
Publisher
Emerald Group Publishing (United Kingdom)
Volume
36
Number
1
Start page
292
End page
315
Pages
24
Subject(s)
Division(s)
File(s)![Thumbnail Image]()
Name
JML_1006.pdf
Size
837.04 KB
Format
Adobe PDF
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