News Gathering and Usage of New Technology among Local Journalists: Problems and Challenges

Abstract

This thesis investigates the adoption and challenges of new technology in news gathering among local journalists in Pakistan, focusing on the rapidly evolving digital media landscape of 2025. Drawing on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as a theoretical framework, the study explores how local journalists perceive, adopt, and utilize digital tools such as mobile phones, social media platforms, and artificial intelligence (AI) in their daily news gathering and dissemination practices. Through qualitative in-depth interviews with journalists from Chakdara, Timergara, and Batkhela press clubs, the research uncovers both the transformative benefits and persistent obstacles associated with digital innovation in local journalism. Findings reveal that while local journalists widely recognize the usefulness and necessity of digital tools for faster reporting, broader audience reach, and real-time updates, their effective adoption is hindered by several factors. Key challenges include a lack of institutional training, limited access to updated technology and reliable internet, digital illiteracy, language barriers, and insufficient organizational support. Economic constraints, political pressures, and cybersecurity threats further complicate the integration of new technologies into local newsrooms. Despite these obstacles, journalists display resilience and adaptability, often relying on self-learning and informal peer support to bridge digital skills gaps. The study highlights the critical role of perceived usefulness and ease of use in shaping journalists’ attitudes and intentions toward technology adoption, as posited by TAM. However, contextual factors such as infrastructure, training opportunities, and organizational culture significantly moderate these relationships. The research underscores the urgent need for structured training programs, improved technological infrastructure, and supportive newsroom policies to empower local journalists. It also calls attention to ethical considerations in AI use, the importance of audience engagement, and the need for sustainable funding models in the face of economic and political uncertainty.