Artificial intelligence is transforming newsrooms, accelerating content creation and redefining how audiences engage with stories. As these changes unfold, journalists need practical strategies to stay current, adapt their workflows and maximize the benefits of using AI ethically and responsibly in their reporting.
That’s why the Knight Center for Journalism in the Americas, in partnership with the Google News Initiative, invites you to join "Google AI Tools for Journalists: Optimizing Editorial Workflow, Content Creation and Audience Engagement," a free bilingual online course available in English and Spanish, running Oct. 20-Nov. 16, 2025.
This four-week course will guide students through practical methods for integrating Google AI into your daily workflows. You’ll learn how to simplify newsroom processes, boost investigative reporting, enhance audience engagement and work more efficiently both individually and collaboratively. Google News Initiative instructors Mariana Alvarado, Cecilia Bazán and Carolina Potocar will provide hands-on guidance while emphasizing responsible AI use and best practices in digital security.
By the end of the course, students will be able to understand the difference between artificial intelligence and generative AI, and use virtual assistants and chatbots effectively by crafting clear prompts. You’ll learn how to integrate AI-powered tools like NotebookLM, Pinpoint and Gemini into your daily workflows, process large amounts of information efficiently and analyze audience engagement and website performance using News Consumer Insights and Google Analytics. The course will also help students improve collaboration and remote reporting, especially for journalists in Central America and the Caribbean. You’ll also explore real-world newsroom examples to see how AI can save time and optimize processes.
"Google AI Tools for Journalists" is designed for journalists, editors, freelancers, independent reporters and newsroom professionals interested in using AI to enhance reporting and storytelling, work strategically and expand their impact.
The course is asynchronous, so you can complete activities at your own pace. It includes videos, optional recorded live sessions with instructors, readings, and discussion forums across five modules.
The course is led by Mariana Alvarado, a bilingual journalist and editor with over 29 years of experience, a Google News Initiative trainer, and an expert in AI, citizen security and data journalism; Carolina Potocar, a specialist in digital and audiovisual journalism, a Google News Initiative trainer, and an experienced editor and mentor in Latin American media; and Cecilia Bazán, a multimedia editor, a digital strategy consultant, and a Google News Initiative trainer with expertise in audience development and monetization strategies.
Once you register and secure your spot, you’ll get instant access to the introductory module and a chance to start exploring how AI can help you work smarter, create content that resonates, and connect with your audience right away.
You will also become part of a community of journalists and media professionals who share ideas and learn from one another. Participants who complete all course requirements will receive a free certificate of completion.
Don’t miss this opportunity! Sign up today and take the first step toward transforming your reporting workflow and audience engagement with Google AI tools.