AI and the News: Examining its growing role in Journalism
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism and news production is a contentious issue facing the industry. While some see the potential for AI to enhance workflows and reporting, others argue it threatens the integrity of journalism. Recent developments highlight the debate around AI's role in the newsroom.
The Associated Press, a major international news agency, has issued guidelines on AI use, stating it will keep experimenting but not publish content solely generated by AI. The AP aims to strike a balance between innovation and editorial standards. Meanwhile, some outlets are more openly embracing AI-generated content. A job advert from Newsquest sought an "AI-assisted reporter" to create national and local news using AI. This represents a new era where reporters integrate their human skills with automated writing tools.
The willingness to leverage AI differs across news organizations. Specialized university courses now exist to teach how AI can bolster newsrooms. According to journalism academic Charlie Beckett, AI is influencing all reporting and provides a "new world" for the industry. Yet he argues AI remains a "language machine" requiring human supervision to ensure accuracy.
While AI's benefits include workflow efficiencies and increased content production, critics argue about auto-generated news. Particularly about that it lacks nuance and threatens public trust. Striking the right balance is key. Euronews has experimented with AI, but this company insists a human editor must review and edit any machine-written story. The Washington Post takes a similar approach, using AI for drafts and templates while maintaining editorial control.
Other techniques like using AI to analyze data and detect patterns can enhance investigative journalism without directly generating content. Ultimately, the consensus is human journalists should stay central to the process. AI may become an invaluable assistant, but journalistic ethics and public service must remain priorities. With the right framework, AI can augment newsrooms without compromising credibility.
AI Catalog's chief editor
Share on social networks:
