Five lessons learned from FactCheck Africa’s AI Journalism Fellowship

Three months ago, I began an eye-opening journey as a participant in the West Africa AI Journalism Fellowship Program.

Sponsored by FactCheck Africa and the Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative in Nigeria, this 12-week training was an adventure into uncharted territory, and I was eager to see what it held.

Here are five invaluable lessons I gained as a journalist, showcasing how AI tools can become essential allies in our storytelling toolkit.

AI enhances your work:

In many newsrooms today, AI is approached with caution due to fears of biases, errors, and misinformation. However, every technology has both pros and cons. Why not tap into the positive potential of AI? Picture a tireless assistant, always ready to help you summarize intricate reports, proofread drafts, generate engaging content for various platforms, and even fact-check your stories. Embracing AI as a supportive tool can open up numerous possibilities for writers.

AI complements human efforts:

Think of AI as an orchestra that needs a conductor. It relies on human input to perform effectively. AI operates based on prompts given by humans, and these prompts require our unique skills and experiences to be effective. As journalists, we need not fear that AI will replace us. Instead, it augments our work, allowing us to focus on the creative and investigative aspects of journalism that machines can’t replicate.

Ethical AI use:

Ethics are the cornerstone of journalism, and this principle extends to our use of AI. As media practitioners, our commitment to truth, balance, and accuracy is paramount. Are we verifying facts even when using AI? We must remember that AI can sometimes falter, producing inaccurate results. Transparency with our audience about AI-generated content is crucial to maintaining trust. Adhering to these ethical standards ensures the integrity of every piece we produce.

Effective AI prompts:

The quality of AI output depends heavily on the quality of the input. “Garbage in, garbage out” is a saying that holds true. If we feed AI incorrect information, it will inevitably produce flawed results. Crafting precise, thoughtful prompts is an art that requires intelligence, skill, and creativity. Mastering this allows us to leverage AI's full potential, ensuring it serves us effectively.

Multiple AI tools:

Relying on a single AI tool is like putting all your eggs in one basket. To achieve balanced, accurate outcomes, it’s wise to use multiple AI tools. For example, if you need to summarize a lengthy article, use three different tools, compare their outputs, and select the one that best aligns with your newsroom’s standards and audience expectations. This method ensures a more robust and reliable use of AI.

Embracing these principles allows us to seamlessly integrate AI into our journalistic practices. Don’t shy away from innovation—explore AI today and experience the forefront of technology in your storytelling endeavors.

The writer is a journalist.