Breakdowns for Human-Machine Creative Reflexivity

arXiv (Cornell University)

Abstract

Generative AI (GenAI) works via goal-directed computation, which differs fundamentally from human creative processes. This poses challenges for the intelligent support of creative experiences. We propose "breakdowns" as opportunities for the exchange of perspectives between human and machine. Breakdowns disrupt a flow and force us to consciously evaluate our "being-in-the-world". Between human and machine, breakdowns can function as openings for collaborative creative reflection. We are currently studying human-human creative interactions, to identify the markers of these inter-subjective openings, and to understand how they are used in a co-creative process. We present preliminary findings on breakdowns as a design principle for creativity support, prioritising human creative agency and meaningful reflection over automated content generation.

Authors 3

1. Marianne Bossema Aachen

   Leiden University · Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences

   Affiliation as printed

   Leiden University Leiden , The Netherlands

   University of Applied Sciences Amsterdam , The Netherlands

2. Somaya Ben Allouch

   University of Amsterdam · Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences

   Affiliation as printed

   University of Amsterdam Amsterdam , The Netherlands

   University of Applied Sciences Amsterdam , The Netherlands

3. Rob Saunders Aachen

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Leiden University Leiden , The Netherlands