Robots learn to communicate better with humans through AI language models

Robots are increasingly used in society, for example as companions for the elderly. Research by Jaap Kruijt shows that communication between humans and robots improves when AI is applied to adapt language use. He developed a custom model that enables robots to learn how people speak and adjust accordingly.

Instead of using large language models, Kruijt built his own method, allowing better control and explainability of the robot’s choices. In experiments where participants interacted with robots through a game, communication became more effective over time, though humans and robots did not develop a shared “mini-language” as humans typically do.

The findings are relevant for the development of social AI applications, such as care robots that provide natural companionship. They highlight the central role of AI in improving human-robot interaction, while also showing that further progress is needed to make robots truly personal conversational partners.'

Read the full article on the VU website.