An integrated approach to untangling mediated connectedness with online and mobile media

摘要

With the growth and convergence of mobile and social computing technology, mobile media are accorded new social meaning manifested in different aspects of our everyday life. This paper employs multiple theoretical frameworks-including the theory of the niche, the framework of media repertoires, and the communication infrastructure model-to examine individual-technology relationship as manifested through media repertoires and media connectedness. It argues that individuals tend to construct a set of media options and build connectedness with media technologies by engaging in a wide scope of activities through these media. In turn, this media repertoire and media connectedness may facilitate the performance of social and cultural practices in the public space. To investigate this conceptualization empirically, this study conducted a secondary analysis of data collected by the Pew Research Center in the United States. The results showed that multidimensional use of mobile apps was predicted by multidimensional Internet use, along with the scope of regular apps used and monetary investment by users. Additionally, multidimensional Internet use and the use of media repertoires consisting of mobile media and social media for socio-cultural activities facilitate public socio-cultural engagement. These results bring to light a new way of understanding how humans appropriate multiple types of technologies for activities in everyday life.