Washington State University signs AI deal for sports content
Washington State University has signed a three-year contract with FanWord to accelerate content production in its athletics department. This $5,000 annual partnership has raised concerns that it may limit hands-on experience opportunities for student interns.
Washington State University (WSU) has reached a three-year agreement with the artificial intelligence company FanWord to assist in the production of game recaps, player biographies, and news content within its athletics department.
The partnership, implemented at an annual cost of $5,000, aims to increase efficiency in the university's sports communication processes. While WSU Athletics Director Jon Haarlow stated that this collaboration would strengthen storytelling, department spokesperson Bobby Alworth emphasized that the software would not replace full-time staff or terminate student internship programs.
The agreement has sparked concerns among sports journalists and alumni that automation could reduce students' chances to gain hands-on experience. Bruce Pinkleton, Dean of the Murrow College of Communication, stated that the school continues to prioritize hands-on education and that they are teaching students how to use various tools, including artificial intelligence.
It was noted that Gonzaga University, which previously used FanWord, primarily utilized the software for statistics and transcription tasks but ended the partnership due to budget constraints.
Sources
- chronline.com · Link