The digital ecosystem of pedagogical support for the adaptation of international students: the integration of artificial intelligence and cross-cultural practices in the educational environment of a modern university

Abstract

In the context of the intensification of academic mobility and the digital transformation of higher education, the issues of adaptation of international students to the socio-cultural environment of universities are becoming particularly relevant. The present study presents an innovative model of the digital ecosystem of pedagogical support, integrating artificial intelligence technologies and cross-cultural practices into a single educational framework. Based on a comprehensive methodological approach, including quasi-experimental research, cluster analysis, in-depth interviews and digital ethnography, the experience of introducing intelligent adaptive systems into the educational process has been studied. The empirical base of the study covers 1,250 international students from 35 countries studying at 12 Russian universities, using longitudinal monitoring of adaptation processes during 2020-2023. The results indicate a significant increase in the index of socio-cultural adaptation (by 37,4%) when integrating personalized digital tools into the support of international students. A correlation (r=0.78) has been established between the use of AI assistants and a decrease in the level of cultural shock at an early stage of adaptation. The developed and proven digital ecosystem provides multi-level support, including cross-cultural navigation, language adaptation, academic integration, and social interaction. The proposed model expands the theoretical understanding of adaptation mechanisms in the digital age and provides practical tools for universities working with an international student body.