Student migration and polymedia: mainland Chinese students’ communication media use in Hong Kong

Yinni Peng*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articlepeer-review

28 Citations (Scopus)
36 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Drawing on qualitative data obtained from mainland Chinese students in Hong Kong, this research uses polymedia theory to analyse the social implications of media use and interpersonal communication by migrant students. It looks at how migrant students use media to communicate with family members and friends in mainland China compared with Hong Kong locals. When communicating with family and friends, their media usage is intense, close and emotion-oriented, forming a warm and supportive virtual network that provides familiarity, a sense of belonging and emotional attachment. In contrast, their media usage to communicate with Hong Kong locals is limited, functional and study-oriented, and although it becomes a platform for practical help, it also demonstrates deep contradictions and conflicts with members of the host society.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2386-2403
Number of pages18
JournalJournal of Ethnic and Migration Studies
Volume42
Issue number14
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 13 Nov 2016

Scopus Subject Areas

  • Demography
  • Arts and Humanities (miscellaneous)

User-Defined Keywords

  • Student migration
  • polymedia
  • communication media
  • mainland Chinese students
  • Hong Kong

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