Skopje, 29 February 2024 (MIA) — Using artificial intelligence responsibly could improve the ways people access information, do research and create content, according to keynote speakers at the third annual “Media Literacy in the Age of AI: Redefining the Possible” international symposium held in Skopje on Wednesday.

According to organizers, the symposium focuses on the crucial convergence of media and information literacy with the fast-evolving domain of artificial intelligence. It aims to examine how improved media literacy can help young people develop critical thinking skills and effectively employ AI-powered media tools for driving positive societal change

Institute for Communication Studies program coordinator Aleksandra Temenugova said in her opening remarks that the topic of artificial intelligence raised many questions, including whether people had the necessary skills to use AI and how aware people were of the risks of using AI.

USAID's Office of General Development head Dawn Carmin said becoming media literate was an increasingly complex task. She said AI was transforming young people and society. By promoting the responsible use of technology, Carmin said, an open, safe and digital eco-system protecting human rights was within reach. Used responsibly, AI could improve the ways people access, analyze and create data, she added.

Symposium attendees include members of international academia and prominent media literacy and artificial intelligence researchers. They are discussing the need for educational systems to adapt and keep up with rapid AI development.

Panelists will also focus on establishing a solid understanding of AI and its implications in the media landscape.

The first panel discussion is on "Navigating the AI Wave: Society and Media in the Digital Age" and the second is on "Educating the Digital Generation: Evolving Education in an AI World." 

An "AICafé: Interactive Learning and Exploration" workshop will be follow later in the day. The workshop will present an overview of most prevalent AI tools and how young people can use them productively and protect themselves from harmful influences.

The symposium was organized by the Institute of Communication Studies within the USAID-supported Media Literacy project YouThink. The project is implemented by IREX together with the Macedonian Institute for Media, the Youth Educational Forum, and the Institute of Communication Studies. mr/