Second, for journalists who would like to report about new topics, or data-heavy topics that they don’t have up-to-date information on (e.g. finance, sports, sustainable development, smart cities…), AI can extract news and provide cross-reference information with reliable sources to offer journalists a foundation to start writing.
It can flag inaccuracies, verify comments, rumours or news, and provide sources to fact-check. This can help ensure the accuracy of reporting. AI can also suggest new story ideas, news angles, and news values.
What journalists can do to upskill themselves
Based on data from existing studies, it’s estimated that AI-powered tools can free up 40 to 60 per cent of a journalist’s workload. If AI gives us back so much time, what are the human contributions in this new era? Well, journalists can focus on honing their soft skills, such as creativity, critical thinking, adaptability, ethical decision-making, and interpersonal relationship building.
While AI can generate content mostly from existing datasets, it lacks the creativity and storytelling abilities of humans. For emotional and creative stories, journalists can craft a compelling narrative to capture the audience’s attention. They are more skilled at customising complex issues/news to different audiences (e.g. stories about the impact of climate change on human life, workplaces and societies).
AI can gather and process vast amounts of information, but journalists have the oversight. They can analyse information critically, and make a judgement based on AI data analysis, information bias or recommendation. They ensure the efficiency and accuracy of news developed with the help of AI.
Their role is similar to that of a chef in a 5-star restaurant. The chef doesn't typically do all the cooking. Instead, the food preparation and major cooking activities is done by a team of cooks, each with their own specialties and responsibilities. The chef will put the final touches on a dish with their signature flavour while ensuring the quality and consistency of the food.
Due to the ‘garbage in, garbage out’ concept of data analysis, AI-generated content is often biased and unethical. Journalists need to identify ethical issues according to the cultural, social, and political contexts of the countries, communities, and audiences they serve. All this while upholding the principles of journalism.
What makes journalists unique and irreplaceable is their relationship building to access reliable human sources, to investigate developing issues, to get new insights or ideas, and to generate authentic news. With their interpersonal skills, human touch and empathy, journalists can connect with their sources and stakeholders on a human level, building trust and rapport that resonates with them.
By combining AI capabilities with human soft skills and expertise, media agencies and journalists can develop their professionalism while upholding the values of integrity, transparency, and meaningful engagement. Having said that, journalists must also be honest about their use of AI tools and remain authentic in their reporting.
P.S: This article was created with the assistance of AI-powered tools.
Story: Dr Long Nguyen, Senior Lecturer and Associate Program Manager, Professional Communication, RMIT University Vietnam
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A version of this story was previously published by the Vietnam Investment Review.
Masthead image: Rymden – stock.adobe.com
