S1/E32: #Can AI Understand Culture? What Technology Still Misses About Cultural Intelligence with Dr Stephan Ruppert

Show notes

As AI tools like ChatGPT become increasingly integrated into education, communication, and even personal development, a crucial question emerges: What does this mean for how we understand—and teach—culture? Can machines truly grasp cultural nuance, or are they just mimicking what they've been trained on?

Culture Chat In this episode, Frauke and Marie-Christine explore the complex and evolving relationship between artificial intelligence and intercultural training. They are joined by Dr. Stephan Ruppert - trainer, lecturer, and AI working group leader at SIETAR Germany—who brings both practical insight and critical reflection to this timely conversation.

From the hidden cultural biases embedded in large language models to the use of AI-powered tools like the TOPOI Bot, we unpack the promises and pitfalls of using AI in culturally sensitive contexts. We also ask: Where should we draw the line between human judgment and machine assistance in education and training?

✨ What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How AI is being used in intercultural education
• The limits of AI in grasping cultural nuance
• Why cultural bias in AI is a real concern
• The TOPOI Bot: a new AI tool for intercultural analysis
• Balancing AI support with human expertise in training

Whether you're are an international living abroad, trainer, educator, or just curious about how technology is shaping our global conversations, this episode offers a thought-provoking look into the future of intercultural learning in a tech-driven world.

About Dr. Stephan Ruppert: Stephan is based in Hamburg, Germany, where he works as a trainer and lecturer specializing in intercultural communication and leadership. His regional focus lies in Germany and Asia—particularly China—where he spent three years in a managerial role. Driven by a strong interest in emerging technologies, Stephan developed a specialized training program that equips trainers, coaches, and educators with the skills to leverage generative AI, enhancing both the efficiency and quality of their work in real-world scenarios.

He leads the AI Working Group within SIETAR Germany, which explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and interculturalism, including the ethical challenges that arise from this convergence. Stephan is also the co-author of the book "ChatGPT and Global Higher Education."

Connect with Stephan: linkedin.com/in/stephan-ruppert https://www.linkingcultures.de

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