The University of Sheffield's School of Information, Journalism and Communication, in partnership with the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ), is hosting a vital symposium dedicated to the practical integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into journalism education.
The one-day event, on January 9 2026, titled "Rethinking Journalism Teaching in the Age of Artificial Intelligence," will convene leading industry AI experts and experienced educators to shape the future curriculum for the next generation of UK journalists.
Joanne Forbes, Chief Executive of the NCTJ, said: “It is essential that we understand how artificial intelligence is being used in newsrooms, how it is influencing workflows and decision-making, and what this means for journalistic skills, standards and ethics. Understanding AI is key to using it responsibly and ensuring it supports high-quality, trusted journalism.
“We are thrilled to be working in partnership with the University of Sheffield on this symposium, bringing together educators and industry experts to help shape journalism training that is fit for the future.”
Polly Rippon, from the University of Sheffield, said: “As journalism educators we want to lead the way in teaching our students innovative and ethical ways to use AI before they go into industry. AI is here to stay and we need to embrace this opportunity to show our students how to use it properly to enhance their work, alongside traditional reporting skills, which remain vital.
“We are delighted to be hosting this exciting event and look forward to hearing how those in our industry are using artificial intelligence at the moment and how they think things will develop in the future.”
The symposium will tackle critical questions facing the media sector and academia:
● How is AI currently being deployed and utilised within modern newsrooms?
● What new, specific skills must journalism students master to remain competitive and employable in an AI-driven environment?
● What are the ethical risks and substantial opportunities presented by AI tools in newsgathering and production?
Attendees will gain insights into current newsroom practices and concrete strategies for adapting their teaching curricula.
Expert Speakers
A high-profile lineup of speakers from major UK news organisations will be sharing their expertise:
● Karyn Fleeting, delivery director, Reach Plc
● Rob Lang, newsroom AI editor, Reuters
● Emma Cordano, Sky News
● Andy Dudfield, Full Fact AI
● Chris Cook, senior reporter, Financial Times
Event Details
● Title: Rethinking Journalism Teaching in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
● When: Friday January 9 2026, 10:00am – 3:00pm
● Where: The Wave, School of Information Journalism and Communication, University of Sheffield, Workroom 2
● Address: 2 Whitham Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S10 2AH
● Post-Event: The symposium will be followed by a drinks reception sponsored by the NCTJ.