Are you a journalist looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence (AI) field? How can AI transform the way newsrooms operate and interact with their audiences? These questions are more relevant than ever as AI tools become more integrated into journalism. To address this, the AI Journalism Labs are offering journalists and media professionals an opportunity to explore the possibilities of AI in ethical, impactful ways.
This unique 3-month hybrid program, developed by the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY and supported by Microsoft, is designed for journalists, executives, and technologists. The AI Journalism Labs uses AI to strengthen trust and increase newsroom impact. Through alternating theory and practice sessions, participants will learn how to use AI effectively in their roles.
The labs aim to equip journalists with practical skills and ethical frameworks for using AI in journalism. Through a combination of lectures by AI experts and hands-on practice, participants will work on real-life AI challenges, culminating in a final project that makes meaningful contributions to the AI journalism space.
Summary
- Host Country: United States (with virtual components)
- Application Deadline: October 18, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET
- Funding Type: Tuition-free programme
- Organiser: Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY, supported
- Supporter: Microsoft
- Eligible Countries: All
- Eligible Gender: Male and Female
- Target Group: Journalists, media executives, technologists, academics
- Focus Area: AI in Journalism, Leadership, AI Adoption
- Study Level: Professional Development
- Duration: 3 months (January-April 2025 for Leadership, April-July 2025 for Adoption)
Lab Details
- AI J Lab: Leadership
- Duration: January-April 2025
- Goal: Enhance leadership and management skills using AI
- Participants: Journalists, executives, and technologists
- AI J Lab: Adoption
- Duration: April-July 2025
- Goal: Facilitate AI adoption in news organisations
- Participants: Local journalists, managers, and academics
Benefits
What are the benefits of the programme?
- Free participation in a hybrid, 3-month programme that combines lectures and hands-on learning
- A flat-rate travel stipend for the selected applicants to New York
- Access to industry leaders and AI experts through seminars and workshops.
- Ethical AI decision-making skills are relevant to journalism and leadership.
- Practical knowledge in deploying AI tools in newsrooms
- A final capstone project guided by a personal coach to implement AI strategies.
- Networking opportunities with peers and industry professionals
- Ongoing support for career development and continuous learning
Participants in the AI Journalism Labs will also:
- Build confidence in using AI tools ethically and equitably
- Enhance their understanding of emerging technologies
- Develop a comprehensive view of AI’s impact on journalism ethics
- Drive discussions and strategies regarding AI in their newsrooms
- Receive ongoing support for learning and career development
- Contribute to solutions in the field
Eligibility Criteria
All applicants must meet these requirements:
- Applicants must be journalists, media executives, technologists, or academics.
- International applicants are welcome.
- No prior AI knowledge is required, though a keen interest in applying AI in journalism is essential.
- Applicants should envision how AI could address challenges in their newsrooms or work environments.
Required Documents
Submit these documents:
- Completed application form
- Resume or CV
- A proposal or idea for an AI-related challenge to be explored during the programme
- Contact information for two references
How to Apply
- Complete the online application form by October 18, 2024.
- Submit your resume and a detailed idea of the AI challenge you wish to research or explore during the programme.
- Provide contact information for two professional references.
- After submission, shortlisted candidates will receive an invitation for an interview with the admissions committee before the final selection.
Further details and information are available on the official website.