Computational Models of Grounding in Collaborative Systems
David R. Traum · 1999
In this paper, I present in detail two models of grounding, Clark and Schaefer's contribution model, and the grounding acts model from my previous work. Description of each model is accompanied with discussion of it's limitations, particularly with respect to use within a collaborative system. Also presented is an approach taking factors such as media costs into account. Overview The concept of common ground, or similar notions, such as mutual belief or a shared conception have been very important in Cognitive Science theories of collaboration/cooperation. 1 Indeed, the two currently dominant accounts of intentional collaboration in AI, Joint Intentions /Teamwork (Cohen & Levesque 1991b) and SharedPlans (Grosz & Sidner 1990; Grosz & Kraus 1993) both include mutual beliefs as key components in their definitions. However, few have taken helpful stands on how mutual belief is established in dialogue. Most agree that acknowledgment plays some role, but there are proofs that no amount ...