UGA Journalism Professors Visit SISU for Academic Exchange and AI Dialogue

 

By Shen Chengyu

Translated by Guo Yishun

From March 24 to 28, professors Carolina Acosta-Alzuru and Michael Cacciatore from the University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication visited SISU’s School of Journalism and Communication (SJC) for a weeklong academic and cultural exchange.

Welcomed by Dean Wu Ying, Associate Dean Zhang Wenyuan, and Professor Chen Peiqin at the Songjiang campus, the visit featured a series of lectures, field trips, and discussions focused on communication, media, and technology.

Prof. Cacciatore delivered two talks on science communication and Prof. Acosta-Alzuru presented “Latin American Telenovelas and Turkish Dramas,” offering insight into the cultural impact of TV dramas and how they shape social identity.

The professors also participated in a promotion session for the Georgia-SISU 3+1+1 program, engaging with students and explaining the application process and academic opportunities available through the partnership.

Beyond the classroom, the delegation visited Shanghai Media Group (SMG) and The Paper to explore AI-powered tools in journalism, including smart writing and data visualization. Discussions centered on how technology is transforming media and creating new opportunities for international research and collaboration.

The visit also included a trip to Qingpu District, where the professors observed how new media platforms are supporting rural revitalization and connecting communities.

On March 25, a seminar titled “How AI is Reshaping Journalism and Communication Education” brought SISU faculty together with the guests to exchange ideas on curriculum reform, tech integration, and school-industry cooperation. Prof. Acosta-Alzuru gave a keynote urging educators to embrace cross-disciplinary teaching and innovation.

The week concluded with a multinational academic roundtable hosted by SISU’s Research Center for Chinese Global Public Opinion, bringing together experts from SISU, Fudan University, the University of Georgia, and HM Hochschule München University of Applied Sciences. With the topic: “Global Communication in the Era of Generative AI,” the dialogue explored AI’s role in reshaping international communication and stressed the value of interdisciplinary and cross-cultural collaboration.

This exchange deepened ties between SISU and UGA, paving the way for future student and faculty exchanges and joint research projects that address the fast-changing global communication landscape.