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Artificial intelligence (AI), including large language models and generative AI, is emerging as a significant force in software development, offering developers powerful tools that span the entire development lifecycle. Although software engineering research has extensively studied AI tools in software development, the specific types of interactions between developers and these AI-powered tools have only recently begun to receive attention. Understanding and improving these interactions has the potential to enhance productivity, trust, and efficiency in AI-driven workflows. In this paper, we propose a taxonomy of interaction types between developers and AI tools, identifying eleven distinct interaction types, such as auto-complete code suggestions, command-driven actions, and conversational assistance. Building on this taxonomy, we outline a research agenda focused on optimizing AI interactions, improving developer control, and addressing trust and usability challenges in AI-assisted development. By establishing a structured foundation for studying developer-AI interactions, this paper aims to stimulate research on creating more effective, adaptive AI tools for software development.more » « lessFree, publicly-accessible full text available April 28, 2026
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Great Power Brings Great Responsibility: Personalizing Conversational AI for Diverse Problem-SolversNewcomers onboarding to Open Source Software (OSS) projects face many challenges. Large Language Models (LLMs), like ChatGPT, have emerged as potential resources for answering questions and providing guidance, with many developers now turning to ChatGPT over traditional Q&A sites like Stack Overflow. Nonetheless, LLMs may carry biases in presenting information, which can be especially impactful for newcomers whose problem-solving styles may not be broadly represented. This raises important questions about the accessibility of AI-driven support for newcomers to OSS projects. This vision paper outlines the potential of adapting AI responses to various problem-solving styles to avoid privileging a particular subgroup. We discuss the potential of AI persona-based prompt engineering as a strategy for interacting with AI. This study invites further research to refine AI-based tools to better support contributions to OSS projects.more » « lessFree, publicly-accessible full text available April 28, 2026
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Context: Newcomers joining an unfamiliar software project face numerous barriers; therefore, effective onboarding is essential to help them engage with the team and develop the behaviors, attitudes, and skills needed to excel in their roles. However, onboarding can be a lengthy, costly, and error-prone process. Software solutions can help mitigate these barriers and streamline the process without overloading senior members. Objective: This study aims to identify the state-of-the-art software solutions for onboarding newcomers. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) to answer six research questions. Results: We analyzed 32 studies about software solutions for onboarding newcomers and yielded several key findings: (1) a range of strategies exists, with recommendation systems being the most prevalent; (2) most solutions are web-based; (3) solutions target a variety of onboarding aspects, with a focus on process; (4) many onboarding barriers remain unaddressed by existing solutions; (5) laboratory experiments are the most commonly used method for evaluating these solutions; and (6) diversity and inclusion aspects primarily address experience level. Conclusion: We shed light on current technological support and identify research opportunities to develop more inclusive software solutions for onboarding. These insights may also guide practitioners in refining existing platforms and onboarding programs to promote smoother integration of newcomers into software projects.more » « lessFree, publicly-accessible full text available January 1, 2026
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Free, publicly-accessible full text available September 2, 2025