Dr. Baiyun Gong Explores Tacit Knowledge in AI-Human Collaboration for Problem Solving
Baiyun Gong, PhD, is a professor of Management at the H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship.
Tell me briefly about your recent grant-funded project.
The title of my recent grant-funded project is “The Role of Tacit Knowledge in AI-Human Collaboration of Problem Solving.” This research receives an award from the NSU President’s Research Grant (PRG) 2026. The goal of the project is to explore how AI and human intelligence can be effectively integrated, particularly in collaborative problem-solving models that leverage the complementary strengths of human cognition and artificial intelligence. Using a mixed-method approach, the study compares three distinct problem-solving models during the solution generation phase of the problem-solving process. Meanwhile, we aim to better understand how tacit knowledge influences decision-making and interaction dynamics in AI-human collaboration. Currently, we are refining the study design and preparing documentation for IRB approval. We predict superior performance of the interactive AI-human collaboration, especially in the high tacit knowledge context.
Our study represents the initial effort in optimizing the collaboration of AI and human intelligence in the workplace, aiming to gain critical insights into the performance of the augmented intelligence in the context of relevant problem-solving processes. By refining our understanding of this topic, this research has the potential to foster economic and social benefits with the strategic allocation of AI and human resources in complex problem-solving.
Who is working with you on this project (Internally and externally)?
My external collaborator is Dr. Xiaochuan Song. He is an Associate Professor of Management at Texas A&M University – Kingsville. His research interests include organizational justice, management in the technology-enhanced working environment, leadership, and healthcare management. Dr. Song will share the responsibilities in study design, data collection, data analysis, manuscript composition, and knowledge dissemination.
My student research assistant, Amelie Rosado, will assist me in the literature review and data collection of the research.
What opportunities and/or benefits does this grant bring to the NSU community (students, faculty, key stakeholders, etc.)?
NSU will benefit from this project as a research institution in the higher education industry because the study will increase our knowledge of the nature of AI-human collaboration and inform effective policies supporting AI-enhanced learning and research experience for the students and faculty. When the research findings are disseminated at conferences and published in a high-impact journal, the significance of the research will promote the NSU brand as an R1 institution in the management field.
How does this project connect with your other work at NSU?
This project aligns closely with my broader research focus at NSU, which centers on workplace technology—particularly the evolving role of artificial intelligence and remote work in shaping how people perform their jobs and experience their professional lives. Throughout my research, I’ve been interested in how technological advancements affect work-life balance, job satisfaction, and employee well-being. This project continues that theme by examining the interaction between human tacit knowledge and AI capabilities, and how that interplay can enhance or challenge traditional problem-solving approaches. It contributes to a growing body of knowledge on how AI can be thoughtfully integrated into the workplace to support—not replace—human decision-making and creativity. The study also offers a valuable opportunity to deepen my understanding of how emerging technologies influence work processes, outcomes, and employee well-being.
How has NSU helped you pursue and/or achieve personal and professional goals you have set for yourself? (NSU resources used? PRG or QOL for preliminary work?)
NSU has played a vital role in helping me pursue my professional research goals, which focus on understanding the interplay between humans and technology in the workplace. My aim is to generate impactful knowledge on how emerging technologies—especially artificial intelligence—affect work processes, employee well-being, and organizational outcomes. I’m especially grateful for the President’s Research Grant (PRG) and the Quality of Life (QOL) grant I received in the past. These grants have supported key activities in my research, including study design, data collection, and preliminary analysis. More importantly, they have helped me maintain momentum by providing both the resources and structure needed to manage timelines and track progress. This support has not only enabled me to move my projects forward but also motivated me to stay focused on achieving meaningful outcomes. Each grant has supported international conference presentations and quality journal publications, which extended the impact of my research.
What advice do you have for other grant seekers at NSU?
My advice to other grant seekers at NSU is to make full use of the resources available through the Grant Office. The grant officers are both knowledgeable and approachable—consulting with them early can often save you time and help you avoid common pitfalls. Their documentation and training materials are especially valuable for new applicants and can streamline the application process significantly.
It’s also important to communicate with your team to ensure they have the capacity and resources to support your research. This will be an invaluable learning experience for the student members on the team. Their ability is likely to be enhanced over time, and you may need to adjust your plan to make the experience more meaningful to them. Their growth brings joy beyond a successful research project.
Finally, be prepared to fully commit to the project once it’s funded. A grant is not just an opportunity—it’s a responsibility. Avoid treating it as a side project. Funded research requires consistent effort to meet the milestones and timelines outlined in your proposal. Staying focused and organized is key to delivering meaningful outcomes and maintaining credibility for future funding opportunities.
What is the next grant proposal or project on your agenda?
We would like to extend our research about the role of generative AI from the experimental context into the workplace and further explore the collaboration processes between humans and AI.