New Media Analysis

New media is a broad term that emerged in the late 20th century and is generally used to identify communication using the Internet and social media. This represents a significant change, both in production and consumer use, from traditional media and is expected to be the main platform for research in the future.[Page 1091] What sets this new media apart from traditional media is that it is more accessible by users, allows for more interactivity, and allows for creative participation and feedback. The new media is accessible by computers, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and smart televisions in a wide range of areas, including at home, at work, and while in transit. The key element of new media is that connection and conversation are created by the interest and efforts of participants. This stands in contrast to traditional media that are defined as being created by single producers in one form with the intention that they be passively consumed by audiences. New media use also varies in that the users have much more control of the media experience. They can select from print, audio, or visual elements, depending on their individual preferences, and can contribute to the media as well in their choice of print comments, audio selections, or video uploads. New media also includes nontraditional mediums of individual communication, including text messaging, blogs, video games, and online newspapers. All of these forms allow users to direct their own experiences by selecting what they read, hear, and see and by enabling them to actively contribute. The entry introduces new media and new media research, paying specific attention to the challenges that arise when attempting to study new media.