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arXiv · 2411.11102

Exploring the Impact of Non-Verbal Virtual Agent Behavior on User Engagement in Argumentative Dialogues

Annalena Bea Aicher·Yuki Matsuda·Keichii Yasumoto·Wolfgang Minker·Elisabeth André·Stefan Ultes
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Abstract

Engaging in discussions that involve diverse perspectives and exchanging arguments on a controversial issue is a natural way for humans to form opinions. In this process, the way arguments are presented plays a crucial role in determining how engaged users are, whether the interaction takes place solely among humans or within human-agent teams. This is of great importance as user engagement plays a crucial role in determining the success or failure of cooperative argumentative discussions. One main goal is to maintain the user's motivation to participate in a reflective opinion-building process, even when addressing contradicting viewpoints. This work investigates how non-verbal agent behavior, specifically co-speech gestures, influences the user's engagement and interest during an ongoing argumentative interaction. The results of a laboratory study conducted with 56 participants demonstrate that the agent's co-speech gestures have a substantial impact on user engagement and interest and the overall perception of the system. Therefore, this research offers valuable insights for the design of future cooperative argumentative virtual agents.

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Annalena Bea Aicher, Yuki Matsuda, Keichii Yasumoto, Wolfgang Minker, Elisabeth André, Stefan Ultes. 2024-11-17. Exploring the Impact of Non-Verbal Virtual Agent Behavior on User Engagement in Argumentative Dialogues. https://doi.org/10.1145/3687272.3688315

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