Polymedia, de-territorialization, and cultural transformation: Pakistani students’ digitally mediated acculturation journeys in China

Abstract

ABSTRACT In light of the increasing trend of inter-Asian migration within China, this qualitative research explores the socio-cultural and technological implications of the de-territorial and digitally-mediated acculturation journeys of Pakistani higher education students in China. A comprehensive analysis of the polymedia experiences of Pakistani higher education students reveals paradoxical trends. The research findings illustrate China’s controlled approach to cultural and technological diversity. The study highlights the dominance of Chinese apps, notably WeChat, and VPN services in strengthening co-national bonds, fostering transnational connections, and cultivating cultural belonging. Conversely, the article contends that the students’ polymedia interactions demonstrate China’s evolving cultural and technological landscape. For instance, digital access, availability, and literacy empower sojourners to reinforce their ethnic identities and communities, promote increased usage of US-based digital platforms, and further accelerate the adoption of the English language within China’s socio-cultural landscape. Understanding these digitally influenced creative pathways and information ecologies presents a significant opportunity for Chinese institutions to foster stronger connections with the expanding South Asian student communities.