JMS Hosts Panel on Artificial Intelligence
On Nov. 3, alumni, students and faculty of the School of Journalism and Media Studies came together to explore the impact of artificial intelligence on the media industry. The event, hosted at KPBS, featured three experts in the media industry:
- Kevin Jorgensen, interactive curriculum developer for Scientific Research Corporation as well as lecturer within the School of Journalism and Media Studies.
- Noah Arceneaux, professor and media historian within the School of Journalism and Media Studies.
- Steve Breen, nationally syndicated and Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist.
Tom Fudge, KPBS’s technology reporter, served as the moderator for the panel. Each panelist shared their own unique perspective about AI: Arceneaux provided historical context within the media industry, Jorgensen demonstrated some of the exciting applications of AI and Breen discussed some of the ethical and legal concerns related to the new technology.
The highlight of the event was Jorgensen having ChatGPT write a story based on an idea from the audience – a hiker being pursued by a yeti. He then used Midjourney and other AI tools to generate graphics, videos and even a song to accompany the story.
This led to a lively discussion on the potential for AI to replace jobs in the media industry, with many wondering whether human involvement will remain irreplaceable.
Lindsey Brintwood, a second year journalism major, found the event to be insightful.
"I thought the AI event was eye-opening. It really showcased the evolution of technology and highlighted a lot of useful tools that AI can bring to our lives."
The evening concluded with guests socializing over hors d'oeuvres and wine in the recently renovated KPBS lobby.