While reading Eyman’s chapter, it is clear to see that there isn’t one set definition to the term “New Media”. Some authors are arguing that new media must have a digital aspect while others believe that it does not have to be digital. However, both arguments are contributing to the same conclusion. Which is that, new media has transformed our rhetoric in many different ways.
Since the media is “new” in a sense, it forces us to become familiar with the platform it is using. By studying new media platforms (film, video, audio, websites, etc) it helps further our understanding of our specific media focus. Eyman references the authors Packer and Jordan when they say “The definitions of today will inevitably (restore) tomorrow, as new applications for digital media emerge over time”. This is why it is important to keep up to speed with all emerging new media technologies because then you won’t fall so far behind in the long run.
Eyman also references Manovich’s five principles of new media which are, “Numerical representation, modularity, automation, variability, and transcoding.” These principles dont make up new media but they are what new media embodies. They are what new media represents. Whereas Packer and Jordan assess the five characteristics of new media which are Integration, interactivity, hypermedia, immersion, and narrativity. These five characteristics build up new media and are “observable features”. Although both of these 5 points addresses are different they both add to the creation and wholeness of new media.
Each definition addressed can work for defining new media but they also add different context for us to think about as well. Eyman says, “Digital media’s peculiar nature challenges traditional categories” which shows that digital media will continue to do this. Expanding to be more literate in new media platforms will only help us grow as readers and writers.
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