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AI is reshaping journalism, transitioning from hype to help. On August 19, 2023, the field faced disappointment after Gannett released an AI-generated report on a high school soccer match. Its lack of basic sports knowledge sparked criticism and caused a halt to the company’s AI experiments.
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Key Takeaways
- The Gannett incident highlights the pitfalls of relying solely on AI for journalism, leading to a pause in AI experimentation.
- Despite initial disillusionment, the journalism industry is beginning to embrace AI’s potential by developing practical tools for newsrooms.
- Educational institutions are actively incorporating AI into journalism training, fostering innovative applications like fact-checking and bias detection.
The Hype Cycle of AI in Journalism: From Excitement to Disillusionment
# The Hype Cycle of AI in Journalism: From Excitement to Disillusionment
Artificial intelligence (AI) experienced a rocky journey in journalism. On August 19, 2023, Gannett’s poorly generated report on a soccer match showcased the Technology‘s limitations. This incident led to widespread criticism and a halt in AI experiments at Gannett, marking a significant moment in the AI adoption timeline.
The Hype Cycle outlines how generative AI surged to prominence in late
2022. Initially, excitement surrounded its impressive capabilities like essay writing and script creation. However, AI’s flaws, particularly its tendency to fabricate information, led to disillusionment as users realized the inaccuracies involved.
Despite these challenges, there is emerging optimism. Key developments include:
• San Francisco Chronicle: Using archives for AI-driven restaurant review suggestions.
• Nota: A tool helping editors create headlines and social media posts.
• Walter Cronkite School of Journalism: Students are building ai tools for fact-checking and media literacy.
These initiatives reflect a shift toward seeing AI as a collaborative partner. The journalism field is beginning to recognize AI’s potential, despite past skepticism.
AI’s Recovery Phase: Innovations and Collaborations in the Newsroom
# AI’s Recovery Phase: Innovations and Collaborations in the Newsroom
AI’s journey in journalism is evolving. Gannett’s poorly generated soccer match report on August 19, 2023, revealed significant limitations of AI Technology. This incident pushed Gannett to pause its AI initiatives, highlighting the struggle between excitement and reality.
Generative AI initially excited many journalists, especially with its impressive features. However, as flaws and inaccuracies emerged, the initial hype turned to criticism. The Gartner Hype Cycle illustrates this journey from inflated expectations to disillusionment, where AI’s tendency to fabricate information became evident.
Despite setbacks, innovative collaborations are shaping AI’s recovery phase. Notable examples include:
• San Francisco Chronicle: Utilizing archives to suggest restaurant reviews driven by AI.
• Nota: A plugin aiding editors with headlines and social media interactions.
• Walter Cronkite School of Journalism: Students creating ai tools for fact-checking and media literacy.
These developments signal a renewed interest in AI as a valuable partner. Journalists are starting to harness AI’s capabilities, signaling a more productive partnership moving forward.