WXXI Connections StudioAbstract
In this comprehensive radio discussion, we examine the dual nature of artificial intelligence in modern journalism - both as a tool for newsroom efficiency and as a vector for sophisticated disinformation campaigns. Jason Lucas presents research on AI-generated disinformation during crisis situations, highlighting how bad actors exploit critical moments when communities are most vulnerable to false information. The conversation covers the evolving landscape of AI applications in journalism, from automated content generation to fact-checking systems, while addressing the urgent need for robust detection mechanisms. Felix Simon contributes insights from four years of research into AI adoption in newsrooms, providing context for how the industry is adapting to these technological changes. Together, we explore the challenges facing journalists, policymakers, and technologists in maintaining information integrity while harnessing AI’s beneficial capabilities.
Program Overview
This episode of WXXI’s “Connections” brings together leading researchers to examine artificial intelligence’s transformative impact on journalism and its potential for misuse in disinformation campaigns.
Key Discussion Points
AI in Newsrooms Today
- Content automation and efficiency improvements
- Fact-checking systems and verification tools
- Editorial decision support and audience analytics
- Challenges in implementation across different newsroom sizes
The Disinformation Threat
- Crisis exploitation: How bad actors target vulnerable moments
- Sophisticated generation: Advanced AI creating convincing false content
- Detection challenges: The arms race between generation and detection
- Community impact: Real-world consequences during emergencies
Research Insights
Jason Lucas presents findings on:
- Longtail events: High-impact, resource-limited scenarios where disinformation causes maximum harm
- Detection evasion: How AI-generated content is becoming harder to identify
- Multilingual campaigns: Cross-linguistic disinformation strategies
- Policy implications: Recommendations for media organizations and regulators
Featured Research
The discussion draws from recent academic work including:
- Studies on expert-edited machine-generated outputs and detection challenges
- Analysis of multilingual disinformation campaigns
- Research on longtail impacts of generative AI in crisis situations
Collaborative Perspectives
Felix M. Simon
Research fellow at the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism, University of Oxford, sharing insights from “Artificial Intelligence in the News” - a comprehensive four-year study of AI adoption in journalism.
Jason Lucas
Ph.D. student in Informatics at Penn State University, presenting research on AI-driven disinformation tactics and their exploitation during crisis events.
Program Innovation
The show features an AI-generated podcast segment discussing Simon’s research paper, demonstrating both the capabilities and potential concerns around synthetic media in journalism contexts.
Host
David Streever guest hosts this episode, bringing his background in journalism and public media to facilitate this crucial conversation about technology’s role in information integrity.
Listen to the full discussion on WXXI’s “Connections” to hear detailed insights on navigating the complex intersection of artificial intelligence, journalism, and public trust.
