The role of AI in international communication: Cross-cultural implications of automated translation and content curation

Abstract

This research project examines the contribution of artificial intelligence (AI) to international communication, specifically focusing on cross-cultural interaction through automated translation and content curation. Global forms of interaction are increasing and, consequently, AI systems are becoming more prevalent in facilitating interlocution; however, issues surrounding accuracy, cultural relevancy, inclusion, representation, and bias, remain. To investigate the above concerns, surveys were distributed to 300 participants in South China, and data was analyzed using SPSS to demonstrate reliability and validity. The results suggested that participants perceived translation quality to be average, and their trust in communication mediated by AI was mid-level. Users’ trust was further analyzed and evaluated using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) based on their perceptions of translation accuracy, fluency, and cultural fit; however, user satisfaction and inclusivity were also affirmatively related to their trust. In addition, open-ended responses were thematically coded to demonstrate higher-order issues related to cultural bias, representation, and fairness in conversational exchanges mediated by AI, thus concerning value economies. As AI systems continue to mediate various forms of cross-cultural exchanges, these findings offer insight into both the potential and limitations of AI, while also providing direction for future work and development that adheres to inclusivity, fairness, and cultural responsiveness in AI-mediated global communication.