TY - INPR UR - https://dl.acm.org/journal/pacmhci SN - 2573-0142 N2 - Interactive Machine Learning (ML) enables users, including non-experts in ML, to iteratively train and improve ML models. However, limited research has been reported on how non-experts interact with these systems. Focusing on thematic analysis as a practical application, we report on a user study where 20 participants interacted with TACA, a functioning Interactive ML tool. Thematic analysis involves individual interpretation of ambiguous data, hence it is suited for and can benefit from the iterative customization of models supported by Interactive ML. Through a combination of interaction logs and semi-structured interviews, our findings revealed that, by using TACA, participants critically reflected on their analysis, gained new thematic insights, and adapted their interpretative stance. We also document misconceptions of ML concepts, positivist views, and personal blame for poor model performance. We then discuss how applications could be designed to improve the understanding of Interactive ML concepts and foster reflexive work practices. ID - discovery10206159 A1 - Milana, Federico A1 - Costanza, Enrico A1 - Musolesi, Mirco A1 - Ayobi, Amid KW - Human-centered computing KW - Interactive systems and tools; Computing methodologies KW - Machine learning KW - interactive machine learning KW - thematic analysis JF - Proceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction VL - 9 AV - public Y1 - 2025/04// TI - Understanding Interaction with Machine Learning through a Thematic Analysis Coding Assistant: A User Study IS - 2 N1 - This version is the author accepted manuscript. For information on re-use, please refer to the publisher?s terms and conditions. ER -