Communication Models in Human–Robot Interaction: An Asymmetric MODel of ALterity in Human–Robot Interaction (AMODAL-HRI)

We argue for an interdisciplinary approach that connects existing models and theories in Human–Robot Interaction (HRI) to traditions in communication theory. In this article, we review existing models of interpersonal communication and interaction models that have been applied and developed in the contexts of HRI and social robotics. We argue that often, symmetric models are proposed in which the human and robot agents are depicted as having similar ways of functioning (similar capabilities, components, processes). However, we argue that models of human–robot interaction or communication should be asymmetric instead. We propose an asymmetric interaction model called AMODAL-HRI (an Asymmetric MODel of ALterity in Human–Robot Interaction). This model is based on theory on joint action, common robot architectures and cognitive architectures, and Kincaid’s model of communication. On the basis of this model, we discuss key differences between humans and robots that influence human expectations regarding interacting with robots, and identify design implications.