Reflections and challenges: a look at the televised coverage of the catastrophe

Abstract

Concerns about natural disasters and television have been scarcely explored as subject of study. Today, given the levels of technological development and the impact they have on viewers, it is more important than ever to inquire into the different areas of media coverage. The following questions are therefore increasingly relevant: how did national television address one of the greatest catastrophes in our country? What type of journalistic treatment did the subjects and sources cited in each note receive? What kind of journalistic treatment was given to the issues addressed and sources cited in each piece? And what type of journalistic treatment did the most affected receive? This article explores the process of compiling and systematizing theoretical concepts, strategic methodologies, and empirical findings resulting from an analysis of the on-screen content broadcast by the Chilean National Television Council[1]. It is an instrument created to contribute to an informed debate and reflection upon the news coverage on national Chilean television during this natural catastrophe