Effects of artificial intelligence learning environments on engineers’ intercultural communication competence: mediating role of learning adaptability

Abstract

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of artificial intelligence learning environments on the intercultural communication competence of engineers. Engineering students at Chinese higher education institutions were invited to participate, and 990 students (510 males and 480 females) from different school types, majors, and grades completed an online survey. After analyses with multivariate linear regression and structural equation modelling, the results show that different dimensions of AI learning environments – including personalized learning, use of technology, and cooperation and interaction – have significant positive impacts on engineers’ intercultural communication competence and learning adaptability. At the same time, learning adaptability plays a mediating role between AI learning environments and intercultural communication competence. This study suggests that AI learning environments may have the potential to (i) enhance engineers’ intercultural communication competence and learning adaptability, an (ii) indirectly improve engineers’ intercultural communication competence through enhancements in their learning adaptability.