Temporal enactment of resettled refugees' ICT‐mediated information practices

Abstract

Abstract“In this paper, we explain how resettled refugees use information and communication technology (ICT) to respond to their changed circumstances and, in doing so, enhance their well‐being and effective participation in a new society. Focusing on three modes of ICT‐mediated information practices (ie, orienting, instrumental, and expressive), we identify eight patterns of ICT use: learning about a new environment, keeping informed, transacting online, communicating with others, managing everyday life, sustaining support networks, maintaining transnational ties, and expressing cultural identity. Further, we draw on a temporal theory of human agency to explain how current dilemmas and contingencies, cultural identities and connections to the past, and future expectations and aspirations shape resettled refugees' enactment of these patterns of ICT‐mediated information practices. We show that, as resettled refugees move between multiple and overlapping temporal‐relational contexts, ICT use makes a difference to managing their bifurcated lives.”