ISEDJ

Abstract: The rapid diffusion of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has intensified the need for theory-driven frameworks that explain how human actors and AI systems collaborate in knowledge transfer and knowledge work. Addressing this need, this paper synthesizes prior research across knowledge management, learning theory, and information systems ethics to clarify the problem space of human–AI collaboration. Through a comprehensive literature review, the study identifies key theoretical and practical gaps, particularly in understanding how AI reshapes knowledge creation, interpretation, and governance in practice. Building on this synthesis, the paper develops an integrated conceptual model grounded in the Socialization, Externalization, Combination, and Internalization (SECI) model, Self-Determination Theory, and Value-Sensitive Design, which organizes the domain into three interrelated dimensions: knowledge transfer processes, human cognitive and social dynamics, and ethical governance in AI-mediated knowledge work. To move beyond conceptual framing, the paper operationalizes these dimensions into three complementary research streams, providing structured and comparable study designs that enable systematic empirical investigation. These streams examine (1) configurations of human and AI involvement in knowledge transfer, (2) the cognitive and motivational dynamics of AI-mediated knowledge work overtime, and (3) ethical governance structures shaping accountability, fairness, and autonomy. To demonstrate feasibility, a small-scale exploratory exercise is conducted to refine key elements of the experimental design and research protocol. Together, this work provides both a conceptual foundation and a structured research agenda, enabling cumulative and theory-driven investigation of human–AI collaboration while positioning AI as a complementary knowledge resource that reshapes, rather than replaces, human expertise in knowledge-intensive contexts.

Download this article: ISEDJ - V24 N5 Page 29.pdf

Recommended Citation: Abby Sen, A., Joy, J..., Jennex, M., Dana, K., Babb, J., (2026). Human - AI Collaboration in Knowledge Transfer: A Research Agenda integrating Knowledge Management. Information Systems Education Journal 24(5) pp 29-48. https://doi.org/10.62273/XDWF4576