Artificial intelligence-based virtual assistants in developing intercultural competence of EFL teacher trainees

Tursunoy Yuldosheva

doi:10.47689/2181-3701-vol3-iss7/S-pp139-144

Tursunoy Yuldosheva Independent Researcher, Uzbekistan State World Languages University

DOI

https://doi.org/10.47689/2181-3701-vol3-iss7/S-pp139-144

Keywords

Artificial intelligence , virtual assistants , intercultural competence , EFL teacher trainees , chatbots , personalized learning , algorithmic biases , immersive simulations

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI)-based virtual assistants, such as chatbots and intelligent tutoring systems, are increasingly integrated into English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teacher training to cultivate intercultural competence (IC). This article synthesizes recent empirical research to examine opportunities like personalized cultural simulations and real-time feedback, alongside challenges including algorithmic biases and limited emotional authenticity. Drawing from studies between 2023 and 2025, it highlights how these tools enhance preservice EFL teachers' cultural awareness, communication skills, and adaptability in diverse classrooms. A comparative table outlines key dimensions, and practical implications for curriculum design are discussed to support equitable implementation in teacher education programs.

References

Anonymous. (2024). The promises and challenges of AI-based chatbots in language education. PMC.

EFLCafe. (2024). AI in Cultural Contexts: Teaching Intercultural Communication to EFL/ESL Students.

Jumanazarov, U. (2021). Ta’limni raqamlashtirish muhitida bo’lajak ingliz tili o’qituvchilarining lingvistik kompetensiyasini rivojlantirish.

Jumanazarov, U. U. (2018). Methods of Forming the Lexical Competence Based on Phraseological Units. In XLIII INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC AND PRACTICAL CONFERENCE" INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC REVIEW OF THE PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF MODERN SCIENCE AND EDUCATION" (pp. 92-93).

Khalikova, R., Musaeva, U., Djuraeva, N., Jumanazarov, U., Sadriddinova, F., Khujakulov, A., & Sattorova, Z. (2024). Managing Digital Transformation: Analysing Digitalization of How Firms Attract, Retain, and Develop Digital Skills. Indian Journal of Information Sources and Services, 14(4), 147-152.

Kuzmina, E. (2023). The use of educational bots in the process of developing intercultural competence of the students of linguistics. ResearchGate.

Li, X., et al. (2025). Fostering Intercultural Competence Through AIDriven Tools. Digital Transformation and Reshaping of Industries and Society.

Various authors from searched sources on AI in EFL and IC (2023-2025).

Wang, Y., et al. (2025). Enhancing intercultural competence in technical higher education through AI-driven frameworks. Scientific Reports.

Zuzana. (2023). AI Tools for Pre-Service EFL Teachers: Exploring Applications and Implications. ERIC.

Downloads

16 7

Published

2025-08-25

How to Cite

Yuldosheva, T. 2025. Artificial intelligence-based virtual assistants in developing intercultural competence of EFL teacher trainees. Foreign Linguistics and Lingvodidactics. 3, 7/S (Aug. 2025), 139–144. DOI:https://doi.org/10.47689/2181-3701-vol3-iss7/S-pp139-144.