AI-assisted sensemaking: Human-AI collaboration for the analysis and interpretation of recorded facilitated conversations

Abstract

In light of growing toxic polarization and societal fragmentation often fueled by social media, we are designing alternative communication spaces we refer to as dialogue networks—networks of people engaged in recorded small-group prompted dialogue. We introduce the dialogue network framework and our use of tools powered by large language models that assist humans in the analysis and interpretation of themes and patterns across conversations which we refer to as sensemaking. We pilot case studies in collaboration with community partners using a prototype AI-assisted sensemaking tool. Insights from these pilots can inform the use of AI for human-led community engagement processes.