Artificial Intelligence and Journalism: An Agenda for Journalism Research in Africa
Document Type
Article
Date of Original Version
1-1-2022
Abstract
Globally, newsrooms are adopting various forms of artificial intelligence (AI) as part of the newsgathering, production and distribution process. Western countries and China, in particular, are leading the innovation of AI in newsrooms—testing technologies that include machine learning, automated content creation and moderation and speech-to-text programs. The adoption of AI in newsrooms, and research of its impact, has predominantly focused on Western countries. Although some African countries have begun incorporating AI into sectors such as government agencies, health, education and finance, little information exists about how newsrooms on the continent are using AI technologies. In this paper, we propose a research agenda to advance the scholarship and understanding of the use of AI in African newsrooms and its implications for journalism in Africa. Through a systematic search of databases, we examine the current use of AI in newsrooms in Africa, along with a review of the opportunities and challenges it presents for journalists. We also present a comprehensive examination and discussion about the theoretical frameworks being used to examine newsroom processes—and the opportunities to adapt those theories to analyse the use of AI in African-led scholarship. Also included in the study are recommendations for addressing methodological challenges related to the use of AI in newsrooms.
Publication Title, e.g., Journal
African Journalism Studies
Volume
43
Issue
1
Citation/Publisher Attribution
Kothari, Ammina and Cruikshank, Sally Ann, "Artificial Intelligence and Journalism: An Agenda for Journalism Research in Africa" (2022). Journalism Faculty Publications. Paper 7.
https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/jor_facpubs/7