How Journalists Adapt To The AI Revolution with Bahareh Heravi

In this episode of "A Journalist's Guide To AI," host Yumi Wilson interviews Dr. Bahareh Heravi, an associate professor and AI expert focused on responsible AI use in journalism. Dr. Heravi shares her journey from a computer science background to merging technology with journalism, inspired largely by the challenges of news detection during Iran’s Green Revolution. The conversation covers the evolving role of AI and computational tools in newsrooms, noting how initial skepticism is slowly being replaced by experimentation, especially following the arrival of generative AI tools like ChatGPT. Dr. Heravi discusses the diversity of attitudes among journalists; some are eager to adapt to AI, while others resist, fearing a loss of professional identity or journalistic integrity. The episode explores how AI tools are democratizing writing, supporting those who face language barriers, and enabling greater collaboration between technical and editorial roles. Yumi and Bahareh also address practical concerns about privacy, data protection, and the importance of clear organizational guidelines for AI use. Dr. Heravi emphasizes that ongoing education, responsible experimentation, and peer support are key as journalists navigate this new landscape, ultimately highlighting how AI can enhance both reporting and writing while safeguarding trust and ethical standards in media. 

(00:00) AI Guidelines, Journalist Uncertainty, and Risk Aversion
(01:16) Introduction of Dr. Bahareh Heravi
(02:02) Heravi’s Personal Journey into AI & Journalism
(04:35) Early Newsroom Experience and Initial Tech Integration
(07:18) Evolution of Technology, Social Media, and AI Adoption
(10:57) What is NLP? Distinguishing Terms
(12:07) Journalists’ Attitudes Toward GenAI Tools
(15:49) The Writer’s Identity Debate & AI’s Influence
(17:54) Language Barriers and AI as an Equalizer
(22:03) Data & Computational Skills in Journalism
(26:57) Practical Advice on Tools for Journalists
(28:48) Privacy Concerns with AI Tools and Data Storage
(32:14) Everyday Privacy, Data Collection, and Personalization
(36:43) Personal vs. Source Data: Journalistic Ethics
(38:44) Consent, Transcription, and Organizational Policy
(41:18) Corporate AI Solutions and Internal Protections
(43:03) AI Training, Literacy, and Policy Development in Newsrooms
(46:29) Moving From Theory to Practical Guidance
(47:10) Closing Remarks & Takeaways

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