Exploration of AI synthetic media and deepfake: understanding the technologies, detection software, legislation, initiatives, and curriculum

Existing research regarding deepfakes has largely concentrated on the technical and legal aspects. As a result, public awareness of deepfakes amongst Americans remains limited. This research employed a qualitative desk/documentary research method to provided comprehensive exploration of the current literature focusing on artificial intelligence (AI)synthetic media with knowledge of the technologies, detection software tools, legislation, organizational initiatives, and higher education resources. It also examined the extent to which deepfake and AI synthetic media content is incorporated into business curricula across 70 AACSB and ACBSP-accredited institutions in Pennsylvania. Specifically, business courses within the course catalogs were reviewed using keyword searches for “deepfakes” and “AI synthetic media”. The analysis revealed that none of the institutions offered business courses explicitly addressing these topics. Although some referenced AI or machine learning, no course content appeared to engage with the ethical, legal, or operational challenges of synthetic media. This research has practical implications for organizations, educational institutions, business instructors, and students wanting to learn more about deepfakes.