Mixed-Initiative Interaction

An interaction paradigm in which both the human user and the computer system can take initiative in directing the task, rather than one party being entirely in control. In accessibility contexts, mixed-initiative interaction is particularly important for AI-powered assistive tools that automate interface tasks — the system handles routine operations autonomously while pausing to involve the user at critical decision points where preferences matter. This approach balances the efficiency benefits of automation with the need to preserve user agency, ensuring that people with disabilities remain active decision-makers rather than passive recipients of automated choices.