Journalism Students’ Use, Expectations, and Understanding of Generative AI Tools

This study investigates how journalism students perceive and use large language models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT, their understanding of the technology, and their ethical considerations. Findings indicate that while students see LLMs as inevitable tools in their future careers, they often misunderstand how these tools generate content, in part because they lack more fundamental knowledge about digital tools. The paper emphasizes the need for tech literacy in journalism programs among both students and faculty.