The influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on journaslism practice: A case of Uganda Christian University’s Standard Newspaper
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Date
2026-06-01
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Uganda Christian University
Abstract
The evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming journalism practices worldwide, reshaping how news is gathered, produced, and distributed. While there is existing research on AI adoption in the media systems, there has been
limited study on its influence within African newsrooms, particularly in Uganda. This study explores the influence of Artificial Intelligence on journalism practice, focusing on The Standard, Uganda Christian University’s newspaper, as a case study. Guided by Technological Determinism Theory, the study explores how AI is currently used in journalism practice, its influence on journalists’ roles, routines, and performance, and the challenges and opportunities it presents.
The study is based on a qualitative research approach, applying purposive sampling with eight journalists working at the Standard Newspaper. The data collected using semi-structured in-depth interviews and analyzed using
thematic analysis show that journalists actively use AI tools such as transcription softwares, grammar and editing applications, data analysis tools, and research assistants to enhance the working speed, storytelling, efficiency, and accuracy.
AI has automated the work tasks enabling journalists to focus more on the human creativity, analysis and engagement. However the study also presents significant challenges namely; misinformation, plagiarism, over reliance on AI assistance, and extinction of the traditional practices and human editorial control. The study concludes that AI has both positive and negative influence on Journalism practice at the Standard but also on journalism as a whole.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Journalism Practice, Newsroom Automation, Media Ethics, The Standard Newspaper.
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Undergraduate