Multiple-Robot Mediated Discussion System to support group discussion *

Deep discussions on topics without definite answers are important for society, but they are also challenging to facilitate. Recently, advances in the technology of using robots to facilitate discussions have been made. In this study, we developed a multiple-robot mediated discussion system (m-RMDS) to support discussions by having multiple robots assert their own points and lead a dialogue in a group of human participants. The robots involved the participants in a discussion through asking them for advice. We implemented the m-RMDS in discussions on difficult topics with no clear answers. A within-subject experiment with 16 groups (N=64) was conducted to evaluate the contribution of the m-RMDS. The participants completed a questionnaire about their discussion skills and their self-confidence. Then, they participated in two discussions, one facilitated by the m-RMDS and one that was unfacilitated. They evaluated and compared both experiences across multiple aspects. The participants with low confidence in conducting a discussion evaluated the discussion with m-RMDS as easier to move forward than the discussion without m-RMDS. Furthermore, they reported that they heard more of others' frank opinions during the facilitated discussion than during the unfacilitated one. In addition, regardless of their confidence level, the participants tended to respond that they would like to use the system again. We also review necessary improvements to the system and suggest future applications.