Enhancing Cross-Cultural Critical Thinking in English Learners Through IT-Assisted Intelligent Learning Strategies Based on Artificial Intelligence

This study investigates the impact of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and edge computing on enhancing English learners’ cross-cultural critical thinking within intelligent learning environments. Grounded in socio-cultural theory’s concepts of “internalization” and “scaffolding,” along with the action framework for cross-cultural critical thinking competence, the study proposes four IT-assisted learning strategies: situational construction, topic resource interaction, scaffolding regulation, and human–computer interpersonal feedback evaluation. These strategies were implemented through a 16-week oral English practice program, employing a blended learning mode to foster cross-cultural critical thinking competence. Learning data, collected via edge computing and analyzed using AI algorithms, revealed significant improvements in learners’ cross-cultural awareness, critical thinking competence, and English language proficiency. This research underscores the transformative potential of education informatization, advocating for dynamic, learner-centered, and intelligent learning environments that enhance digital literacy and cross-cultural critical thinking competence. By providing a practical framework for cultivating cross-cultural critical thinking competence in the digital era, this study contributes to the advancement of IT-assisted language education and offers valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and technology developers.