Newsroom Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Independent Television in Benin and its Effects on Editorial Routines

This study examined newsroom adoption of artificial intelligence tools in Independent Television, Benin City and its effect on editorial routines. The study investigated the extent of AI adoption, its effect on editorial routines and journalists’ perception of AI tools in newsroom operations. A survey research design was adopted and data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to journalists in ITV, Benin City. The findings revealed a moderate level of AI adoption, with journalists using tools such as ChatGPT, Jasper AI, transcription applications, and Google Speech-to-Text for news gathering and production activities. The study also found that AI positively influences editorial routines by improving the speed of news production, reducing workload and enhancing accuracy in editorial decision-making. Furthermore, journalists expressed a favourable perception of AI, indicating high acceptance based on its usefulness, ease of use, and contribution to improved journalism practice. The study concluded that AI is gradually transforming newsroom operations, although full integration is still in progress. It recommended continuous training, improved infrastructure and the development of ethical guidelines for AI use in journalism practice.