| Abstract: |
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in journalism is
transforming news production, distribution, and fact-checking
processes. This study examines the ethical and professional implications of AI in journalism practice in Plateau State, with a specific focus on the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Chapter. Anchored on the technological determinism theory,
the study adopted the survey research design. The population for this
study was 312 registered and licensed journalists at the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Plateau State Chapter. Due to the relatively small size of the population, the study employed a total enumeration approach rather than sampling. Copies of the questionnaire were distributed to all members, and 278 valid responses were retrieved and used for analysis. The study found that majority of respondents (55%) were very familiar with AI-powered tools in journalism. 100% of the respondents were aware of AI-powered journalism tools such as ChatGPT, Google News AI, Grammarly, and Automated News Writing Software. In conclusion, this study has highlighted how AI-powered tools enhanced journalistic efficiency, accuracy, and fact-checking while they simultaneously raised concerns about misinformation, sensationalism, and source privacy.
Based on the findings of the study, the study recommended that the Nigeria Union of Journalists should encourage training in AI literacy programmes, so as for journalists to use AI-powered tools ethically, enhance accuracy, and participate in policy discussions for
responsible AI integration in journalism. |
