Exploring Journalism Education in the AI Era: A Mixed Analysis of University Training in Spain

Abstract

This research explores journalism education in the context of AI’s disruptive influence, seeking strategies that balance technological skills with core humanistic values. Using a mixed-methods approach, including interviews with nine Spanish journalism professors and one Harvard expert, we analyzed qualitative data with NVivo and quantitative data with SPSS. Findings identify three main reform areas: integrating AI and transmedia competencies, reinforcing foundational journalistic skills, and restructuring curricula to enhance academia–industry collaboration. Experts advocate for what we call a techno-humanist, pyramid-shaped educational model that prioritizes practical training, critical thinking, and ethics. The study underscores the need for flexible, integrative, and active learning models in journalism education.