Enhancing intercultural competence of Chinese English majors through AI-enabled Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) in the digital era
Article / Journal
Author(s) / editor(s):
Lixuan Sun
Year: 2025
Language(s): English
Abstract:
This study investigates the impact of an AI-enabled Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program on the intercultural competence of Chinese English majors. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of pre-test and post-test data with qualitative insights from participant interviews. Participants included 38 students in the experimental group and 39 in the control group from the Faculty of Foreign Languages at H in China. The AI-enabled COIL program, conducted over 12 weeks with a partner institution from Malaysia, aimed to enhance intercultural competence through virtual collaborative projects facilitated by AI tools. Quantitative findings indicate significant improvements in the experimental group’s intercultural competence post-program, particularly in dimensions such as attitudes, intercultural communication skills, and consciousness. Qualitative analysis reveals that collaborative activities and AI tools played pivotal roles in fostering cross-cultural understanding and personal development among participants. These findings underscore the potential of AI-enabled COIL programs in preparing students for global citizenship and promoting inclusive educational practices. The study concludes with implications for educators and recommendations for future research in leveraging AI for intercultural learning initiatives.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-024-13143-7
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