What Happens When Humans Clash with AI—and Each Other?
Picture a search-and-rescue operation where humans and AI work side by side. An AI system scans a disaster zone looking for a missing person. A human spotter in the air suggests moving to a new area, and the AI agrees. Meanwhile, a team member on the ground objects. What comes next?
This scenario is at the heart of research led by Christopher Flathmann, an assistant professor at Clemson University’s School of Computing. His project tackles how humans and AI can collaborate effectively, especially when disagreements arise.
Fostering Human Collaboration Alongside AI
Flathmann’s goal is clear: integrating AI shouldn’t come at the expense of human teamwork. Instead, AI should support and enhance how people work together. “If we’re going to bring AI into any team, it can’t weaken human collaboration,” he says. “We want to bolster humans working together.”
Funded with $400,000 from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research’s Young Investigator Program, this three-year project highlights Flathmann as a promising researcher focused on foundational questions about AI-human interaction.
Why This Research Matters Now
AI integration is accelerating across industries and the military. Complex environments demand teams that can coordinate at multiple levels, often involving both humans and machines. “AI isn’t optional anymore,” Flathmann emphasizes. “It’s a necessity for handling complex missions where multiple teams must work together.”
His research focuses on two key areas:
- Designing AI systems that preserve natural human interactions.
- Developing training programs to prepare humans to work effectively with AI teammates.
To test these ideas, Flathmann’s team runs military-style search-and-rescue simulations with adult participants. The aim is to observe how people interact with AI collaborators and each other, providing insights that extend beyond military use into general workforce integration.
Training the Next Generation of AI Researchers
The project also offers valuable learning opportunities for students. Among them is Kwame André, a recent computer science graduate now pursuing a Ph.D. under Flathmann’s guidance. “AI is being integrated immediately,” André points out. “The question is whether it disrupts relationships or if we can help maintain them.”
Both Flathmann and André focus on ensuring that human connections remain strong—even as AI becomes a teammate. Their work aims to balance human collaboration with the support AI can provide.
For those interested in developing skills for working alongside AI, training resources are available that prepare you for this evolving landscape. Explore practical AI courses and certifications at Complete AI Training.
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