Exploring Story Selection Influences at the British Broadcasting Corporation. (September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Watson, W. Joe
• Is Part Of: Electronic news. Volume 10:Number 3(2016:Sep.)
• Page Start: 161
• Page End: 177
• Publication Date: 2016-09
• Subjects: broadcast -- news format -- newsroom practices -- business of journalism -- in-depth interviews -- method -- British Broadcasting Corporation; Broadcast journalism -- Periodicals; Broadcast journalism -- United States -- Periodicals; 070.43
• DOI: 10.1177/1931243116656715
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1931-2431

Abstract

This study explores the influences on story selection at the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). Through interviews with personnel across all levels of BBC News and observation of editorial meetings and newsroom routines at BBC World Headquarters in London, the author applies Gatekeeping theory in an effort to understand the BBC's story selection process. Three themes emerge to inform our understanding of how stories are chosen and shaped for coverage at the BBC: respect and appreciation of the audience, the needs of individual networks and programs, and awareness of the Royal Charter.