Research Article

AI in the newsroom: A case study of investigative journalists in Spain

Marta Sánchez Esparza 1 * , Santa Palella Stracuzzi 2 3
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1 Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, SPAIN2 EAE Business School, Madrid, SPAIN 3 UNIE Universidad, Madrid, SPAIN * Corresponding Author
Online Journal of Communication and Media Technologies, 16(2), April 2026, e202614, https://doi.org/10.30935/ojcmt/18148
Published: 17 March 2026
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ABSTRACT

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism is transforming professional roles, skills and attitudes, especially in investigative journalism. This study analyses how investigative journalists in Spain perceive the impact of AI on their job profile and what skills are emerging in the face of this disruption. Using a quantitative, cross-sectional design, a representative sample was surveyed to obtain data on technologies used, automated tasks, perceived occupational risks, and training actions. The results reveal a progressive transformation of functions, without the direct creation or elimination of profiles, and a clear trend towards self-training. Emerging skills include advanced digital literacy, the strategic use of AI tools and the reinforcement of interpretative skills. It is concluded that a hybrid profile of the investigative journalist is emerging, where AI does not replace but redefines the profession by requiring a combination of technological and narrative skills.
Keywords: investigative journalists, artificial intelligence, technologies, professional profiles, media

CITATION (APA)

Sánchez Esparza, M., & Palella Stracuzzi, S. (2026). AI in the newsroom: A case study of investigative journalists in Spain. Online Journal of Communication and Media Technologies, 16(2), e202614. https://doi.org/10.30935/ojcmt/18148

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