New Frontiers in AI and Journalism Research

Consistent with BEA’s mission to advance research on media technologies and education, this panel addresses how AI reshapes the study of journalism — not only as an object of analysis but as a methodological revolution in media research itself. It aligns with the convention’s focus on technological transformations, algorithmic cultures, and the future of scholarly inquiry in media and communication.This panel offers a timely and urgently needed scholarly conversation for the BEA 2026 Convention by illuminating how artificial intelligence is transforming journalism not only as a professional practice but also as a rapidly evolving domain of academic inquiry. Uniquely distinguished by the prominence and interdisciplinary reach of its participants, the panel features leading scholars and industry experts whose work has shaped national and international conversations around AI, media innovation, and communication research. ICA Fellows Don Shin and Shuhua Zhou bring perspectives on AI epistemology, algorithmic fact-checking, and audience cognition; Kerk F. Kee, an interdisciplinary principal investigator with over $13M in prestigious grants, contributes cutting-edge insights into AI-driven risk communication systems and their implications for journalistic verification; Alexandra M. Merceron, a senior industry executive and faculty expert in emerging media technologies, connects academic theory to real-world innovation as she examines the rise of LLM-based information ecosystems and generative engine optimization. Nigerian journalist, founder and executive editor of Minority Africa Caleb Okereke speaks on the panel both as a researcher and practitioner with a focus on questions of ethics and representation in AI and journalism. His current research work examines automating the journalistic "gut feeling." His research team uses LLMs to select images to accompany news stories in a large-scale study. Collectively, these leading AI experts demonstrate the depth, rigor, and forward-looking vision that aligns with BEA’s mission to advance research and education on emerging media technologies. Their combined expertise ensures that this session will offer attendees unparalleled insights into the theoretical, methodological, and practical transformations reshaping journalism in an AI-integrated media environment. Kerk F. KeeProfessor, Texas Tech University Alexandra M. MerceronExecutive Vice President, Rubenstein CommunicationsFaculty, New York University Caleb OkerekeFounder and Executive Editor of Minority Africa Don H. ShinProfessor, Texas Tech UniversityEditor, JoBEM (Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media) Special Issue “AI, Misinformation, and the Future of the Algorithmic Fact-Checking”Doctoral Fellow, Northeastern University