Breaking the Mold: A Content Analysis of ESPN’s Written and Broadcast Coverage of the 2023 Women’s College World Series
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Date
2024-07-01
Authors
Montes, Nina-Grace
Shontz, Lori
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
This project investigates whether the 2023 Womenʼs College World Series media coverage exhibits gender biases in its softball coverage similar to those researchers have found in coverage of other womenʼs sports: sexualization, stereotyping, and downplaying importance, among many others. Specifically, it compares ESPN's coverage of the Womenʼs College World Series to its male counterpart: the College World Series baseball championship. Through a comparative content analysis of live game broadcasts and written articles during the championship series, the research found that some elements of softball broadcasts had higher production values than baseball broadcasts, with more creative elements such as graphics, music, player segments, and replays. Comparatively, baseball broadcasters used more action-packed language and had more excitement in their delivery and utilized more creative elements. The results suggest that womenʼs sports coverage is improving, although there is still room for improvement.
Description
Nina-Grace Montes is graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism and Latinx Studies. Ninaʼs research project titled “Breaking the Mold: A Content Analysis of ESPNʼs Written and Broadcast Coverage of the 2023 Womenʼs College World Series” was mentored by Professor of Practice of the School of Journalism and Communication, Lori Shontz. She plans to attend Arizona State University for a Masters degree in Film and Media Studies in the Fall of 2024.
Lori Shontz specializes in the teaching of core writing and reporting skills. She is a leader nationally in the teaching of community-centered journalism and trauma-informed journalism, and she is an affiliated faculty member of the Agora Journalism Center.