Rethinking core journalism skills in the age of AI
To ask what makes a reporter human is to ask what are the core skills of initial journalism training. This article attempts to identify the skills that are becoming obsolete and to highlight the human qualities that really make a difference. By focusing on curiosity, empathy and ethical storytelling, it aims to stimulate discussion about how journalism training needs to evolve to meet the demands of a changing media landscape in the AI age, while preserving the values that define the profession.
Understanding needs means understanding uses: The case of AI in journalism
The integration of artificial intelligence into journalism is often framed as a question of technological capability – what AI can do. But a more pressing question is: what do journalists actually need? This is not always easy to determine, as needs are often implicit, shaped by professional practices, workflows and constraints, rather than explicitly stated.
Beyond technology, an instrument of propaganda
Beyond its technical innovations, DeepSeek has the potential to contribute to the information disorders ecosystem. Its alignment with state propaganda does not make it an ideal candidate in terms of trust, transparency and credibility.
AI in the news production chain
The integration of AI into journalistic processes is transforming the way information is produced, processed and disseminated. Today, AI plays a role in every stage of the news production chain – from breaking news detection to distribution – while also supporting data collection, analysis and reporting.
AI practices and challenges for journalism in Africa
Newsrooms on the African continent are at an interesting crossroads where structural challenges and opportunities intersect. The potential of AI technologies for journalism is significant, offering tools to improve news gathering, fact-checking and content production. However, its adoption and use faces several challenges specific to the African context, ranging from inadequate digital infrastructure to dependence on technologies from the « Global North ».
Once upon a time there was data
Data is the cornerstone of journalism’s evolution, shaping its relationship with technology. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) relies heavily on data to drive prediction and classification, transforming journalistic workflows and decision-making. This chapter traces the historical interplay between journalists and technology, highlighting how data has fuelled both innovation and ethical dilemmas in modern AI-driven journalism.
[Research note] Developing prompting strategies for journalism and fact-checking
Despite concerns about accuracy, bias, and « hallucinations » in outputs, journalists and fact-checkers are increasingly using generative AI (GAI) tools. This research note highlights the importance of effective risk mitigation strategies, including (G)AI literacy, ethical practices, and the development of advanced prompting strategies.
Journalism & AI: Cutting through the hype
The adoption of AI in journalism has been characterised by a hype cycle that often exaggerates its potential, fuelled by sometimes aggressive marketing and misconceptions. Despite fears of human replacement, AI remains a complementary tool rather than a replacement, and its true value lies in supporting human creativity and decision-making.
