AI-TPACK in teacher education: investigating the role of AI-TPACK in multicultural teaching competencies and intercultural sensitivity of teacher candidates

This study investigates the moderating role of Artificial Intelligence – Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (AI-TPACK) in the relationship between teacher candidates’ intercultural sensitivity and multicultural teaching competencies. Using a relational screening model, data were collected from 399 teacher candidates across various departments in Turkish education faculties. Instruments included the Intercultural Sensitivity Scale, the AI-TPACK Scale, and the Multicultural Teaching Competencies Scale. Findings revealed that while intercultural sensitivity positively predicted multicultural teaching competencies, AI-TPACK exerted a negative moderating effect, decreasing the strength of this relationship at higher levels. This negative effect suggests a threshold-like phenomenon in which moderate AI-TPACK supports culturally responsive teaching, but higher AI dependence may weaken culturally grounded decision-making. The results underscore the importance of integrating critical, ethical, and culturally aware AI training in teacher education programmes. Within the Turkish context, the study offers timely implications for enhancing both technological and intercultural competencies in future teachers navigating increasingly diverse classrooms.