One meaningful application of GenAI is in supporting intercultural learning through simulated interactions. These activities can help learners reflect on communication, identity and inclusion in culturally diverse classrooms and workplaces. AI tools can generate realistic dialogues and role-play scenarios that encourage learners to explore different perspectives and communication styles while recognising that culture is dynamic and shaped through everyday interactions.
For example, ChatGPT can be asked to simulate a workplace discussion with a colleague from another country. It may offer both respectful and culturally inappropriate responses, enabling learners to spot nuances. Trainers can create tailored learning moments that would otherwise require in-person facilitation.
Research has shown that international students using GenAI tools often report greater ease in adjusting to new cultural settings (Ma et al., 2025). These tools offer instant feedback and information, helping users interpret unfamiliar social norms. Nevertheless, it is important to remain critical, AI content should always be checked for accuracy and free of stereotypes.
Example: A hospitality student uses ChatGPT to act as a hotel guest from a different cultural and linguistic background. The student practises responding as a receptionist. This exchange promotes awareness of tone and cultural expectations in customer service.
Trainer Tip: Always review AI-generated scenarios before sharing them with learners. Adapt or correct responses to avoid overgeneralisations or unintentional bias.
Exercises:
Individual: Use ChatGPT to generate a realistic intercultural workplace conversation related to your vocational field. For example: “I am an apprentice chef joining a multicultural restaurant team. Please act as the head chef welcoming me. Include one misunderstanding caused by different communication styles and demonstrate how respectful communication can resolve it”.
After reading the conversation reflect on the following:
- What cultural differences appeared?
- How was the misunderstanding resolved?
- What communication strategies promoted respect, inclusion, and effective teamwork?
- Did the AI rely on stereotypes or generalisations? If yes, how could the prompt be improved?
Group: Working in groups of four, assign the following roles: head chef, apprentice chef from another country, waiter/waitress, restaurant manager. Use ChatGPT to generate a realistic workplace scenario involving a multicultural kitchen team during a busy lunch service. Act out the scenario and discuss:
- What caused the misunderstanding?
- How did the team resolve the issue?
- Which behaviours promoted inclusion and effective teamwork?
- How could communication be further improved?
- Did the AI represent all perspectives fairly?
Teachers may adapt this activity to other vocational sectors (e.g., healthcare, construction, automotive, retail) by changing the workplace setting while maintaining the focus on intercultural communication.