Gender Representation in Kenyan Journalism: Analyzing Gender-Sensitive Reporting Pedagogy and Faculty-Student Perspectives in Journalism Programs
This study investigates the integration of gender-sensitive reporting (GSR) approaches in journalism education across different Kenyan public and private universities and colleges. There's a broad corpus on gender inclusion in the media; however, little research has examined structural issues in integrating gender-sensitive reporting concepts in the journalism curricula. In response to persistent gender-based violence and media misrepresentation of women, this survey research study incorporates mixed-methods to examine pedagogical approaches that promote gender awareness in journalism programs. This study surveyed (N=67) journalism students and faculty members. It used structured online questionnaires to explore curriculum design, teaching practices, institutional support, and the influence of socio-cultural norms on GSR approaches. A thematic analysis that involved open coding of the data was preferred to identify recurring themes and patterns. This survey research revealed three significant findings: (1) Kenyan journalism programs lack standardized curriculum approaches to GSR education; (2) there is a lack of both faculty and institutional preparedness for GSR; and (3) persistent social-cultural norms (the dominant limiting factor) that influence the perception of gender issues among students and faculty members. It also highlighted a critical gap between conceptual understanding and practical implementation of GSR. Several challenges emerged, including outdated curricula, insufficient faculty training, socio-cultural resistance, and over-reliance on Western teaching models. While most participants recognize the importance of gender-sensitive reporting, inconsistencies in curriculum reviews and a lack of standardization limit its effectiveness. This study contributes to a nascent area of research, offering new perspectives and underscoring the critical need for curricular reform, faculty development, and institutional support to bridge these gaps.
Digital Media, Femicide, Gender Based Violence, Gender Mainstreaming, Gender-Sensitive Reporting, Journalism Education
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