AI Takes Center Stage at ASEAN Media Workshop
The recent ASEAN Media Capacity Building Workshop in Hong Kong put artificial intelligence (AI) at the forefront of discussions on the future of journalism. Organized by the Chinese Mission to ASEAN and China Daily, the event focused on how media organizations across ASEAN can adapt and stay competitive amid the growing influence of AI technologies.
Boosting Efficiency Without Losing the Human Touch
Experts from China Daily Asia Pacific demonstrated how AI tools can assist journalists by quickly identifying spelling and grammar mistakes and extracting key facts from large datasets. These capabilities help journalists save time on routine tasks, allowing them to focus on crafting more insightful stories.
However, the workshop also highlighted the risks of over-dependence on AI. Relying too much on automation could weaken reporters' core skills and jeopardize job security. Romulo T. Luib, deputy director of the multimedia department at China Daily Asia Pacific, stressed that while AI can support preliminary research, it should not replace human judgment in writing complete articles due to potential factual inaccuracies.
Enhancing Digital Reporting Skills
Robert Hope-Jones, multimedia managing producer at China Daily Asia Pacific, shared practical tips on using mobile devices and other technical tools to improve digital news reporting. These insights aim to help journalists produce high-quality content efficiently in an increasingly digital newsroom environment.
Soo Wern Jun, senior journalist at Malay Mail, praised the workshop for its practical approach. She noted the remarkable changes in Hong Kong since her last visit 18 years ago, especially the surge in skyscrapers. Jun expressed enthusiasm for her upcoming visit to Shenzhen, reflecting the dynamic nature of media exchange in the region.
Regional Perspectives on AI in Journalism
Participants from Cambodia, Indonesia, and Thailand shared how their countries are developing guidelines to regulate AI use in journalism. Their goal is to ensure AI applications comply with legal and ethical standards, maintaining responsible media practices while embracing new technologies.
- AI can improve efficiency by handling routine editing tasks.
- Human oversight remains essential to maintain accuracy and credibility.
- Mobile and digital tools enhance reporting capabilities.
- Regional efforts focus on creating frameworks for ethical AI use.
For professionals in PR and communications or writing, understanding the balance between AI assistance and human expertise is crucial. Staying informed about AI tools and ethical standards can help maintain the quality of content while leveraging technology for better productivity.
To explore practical AI courses that can strengthen your media skills, consider visiting Complete AI Training for up-to-date resources and learning opportunities.
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