In Austin, KXAN is taking a bold step to demystify generative AI after a survey revealed that only 35.9% of its audience feels they understand the technology.
What Is Generative AI?
Generative artificial intelligence refers to systems that produce new content—such as images, text, and video—based on a user’s prompt or request. The technology has rapidly expanded with popular programs like ChatGPT, Sora, MidJourney, Google Gemini, and Nano Banana Pro.
Why It’s Hard to Keep Up
The pace at which new generative‑AI tools appear makes it difficult for both users and newsrooms to stay current. The article includes informational cards that explain how these systems pull data, what they can do, and the potential risks associated with their use.
Survey Findings
KXAN launched a survey as part of a global cohort of newsrooms working with Trusting News. Of the 103 people who responded:
- 35.9% said they understood AI very well.
- The majority indicated they either didn’t understand AI well or wanted to learn more.
- 49.5% said they would prefer to receive information on a news website or app.
These results guided the decision to publish this explanatory piece.
KXAN’s Collaboration with Trusting News
This article was produced in partnership with Trusting News, a research and training project that helps journalists build trust with their audiences. KXAN has partnered with Trusting News three times:
- The first project used viewer feedback to create KXAN’s AI‑approach framework.
- The second project focused on transparency best practices for newsroom AI use.
- The current project gathers audience questions and plans a series of stories and social‑media posts.
## Planned Story Series
KXAN will produce additional content addressing the topics viewers expressed interest in, including:
- Privacy and security concerns surrounding AI.
- Techniques for spotting AI‑generated content.
- How AI can make mistakes and contribute to misinformation.
These stories aim to educate viewers and provide practical guidance.
Key Takeaways
- Only 35.9% of surveyed viewers feel they understand AI very well.
- Nearly half of respondents prefer to learn about AI through news websites or apps.
- KXAN’s partnership with Trusting News will drive a new series on privacy, content detection, and misinformation.
KXAN’s initiative demonstrates a commitment to transparency and education, ensuring Austin’s audience receives clear, reliable information about the rapidly evolving world of generative artificial intelligence.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
