Domestic and International Scholars Gather at Beijing Normal University-Hong Kong Baptist University United International College to Explore Synergy of AI Communication, and Future Media

On December 1, the "Embracing Digital Futures: Exploring the Synergy of AI, Communication, and Future Media" symposium, hosted by the Center for Creative Media and Communication Research (CCMCR) at Beijing Normal University-Hong Kong Baptist University United International College (UIC), the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, and the Graduate School, was successfully held at UIC’s campus and thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.

The symposium brought together global Chinese scholars to discuss the theoretical and practical implications of artificial intelligence in communication. Jointly organized by Renmin University of China (RUC) and Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU), the symposium took place from November 29 to December 1 at both HKBU and UIC, marking the first milestone international conference planned by multiple parties.

Welcome Speeches by Professor Yu Huang, Associate Vice President of UIC & Professor Tze-ki Hon, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

Professors Andrea Tapia and Marie Hardin, Deans from Penn State University, presented gifts to Professors Huang and Hon

Professor Yu Huang, Associate Vice President of UIC, and Professor Tze-ki Hon, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, delivered welcome speeches, expressing gratitude to the scholars for their participation and acknowledging the hard work of the organizing committee.

The opening ceremony was hosted by Professor Lin Zhu, Director of CCMCR

Professor Ran Wei, Associate Dean of the School of Communication at Hong Kong Baptist University

Keynote speeches were given by Professor Ran Wei, Associate Dean of the School of Communication at Hong Kong Baptist University, and Professor Xiaokun Wu from the School of Journalism at Renmin University of China. Professor Wei discussed the short-term benefits and long-term implications of AI-generative tools, emphasizing the need to address biases in AI-generated news reporting. Professor Wu explored the construct of social mentality and raised concerns about the challenges of applying computational methods to assess social sentiment.

Professor Xiaokun Wu, the School of Journalism at Renmin University of China

"Dean’s Forum - The Future of Communication in a Digital World"

The "Dean’s Forum - The Future of Communication in a Digital World" featured several experts holding administrative positions who discussed how AI is transforming mass communication, addressing ethical challenges and exploring human-machine collaboration in driving innovation.

The symposium was divided into six sub-forums, discussing nine key topics, including "Generative AI's Innovative Use in Art and Media," "AI Governance," and "AI's Opportunities and Challenges: Ethics and Practice." Experts and scholars from renowned institutions, including Tsinghua University and Renmin University of China, shared their latest research and explored the role of artificial intelligence in news communication, as well as its impact on public engagement in democratic processes.

During one of the sub-forums, graduate students from Renmin University of China’s School of Journalism and Communication examined the reactions of young internet users to AI’s involvement in political communication ecosystems. Faculty and students from UIC actively participated by submitting papers and engaging in discussions, showcasing the value of a liberal arts education.

The symposium attracted over a hundred scholars and students who engaged in academic discussions and presented their research findings. Throughout the conference, participants exchanged ideas and collaboratively examined how artificial intelligence is reshaping the communication landscape. They also explored the challenges and opportunities that arise from this transformation. The event successfully facilitated interdisciplinary exchanges and fostered intellectual discussions. The success of this symposium not only underscores the academic community's keen interest in AI-related communication issues but also reflects the participants' enthusiasm and commitment to advancing research in this field.