Exploring the Impact of AI Value Alignment in Collaborative Ideation: Effects on Perception, Ownership, and Output

Abstract

AI-based virtual assistants are increasingly used to support daily ideation tasks. The values or bias present in these agents can influence output in hidden ways. They may also affect how people perceive the ideas produced with AI agents of different value alignments and lead to implications for the design of AI-based tools. We explored the effects of AI agents with different values on the ideation process and user perception of idea quality, ownership, agent competence, and values present in the output. Our study tasked 180 participants with brainstorming practical solutions to a set of problems with AI agents of different values. Results show no significant difference in self-evaluation based on value alignment; however, the ideas generated in the brainstormig process reflected the AI’s values. This thesis highlights an intricate interplay between AI values and human ideation, suggesting careful design considerations for future AI-supported brainstorming tools.