New uses of "old" media: Exploring technologies-in-use in Nunavut

Abstract

Background This article draws upon findings from interviews and participant-observation in Nunavut, Canada, to analyze internet's place within the communication landscape. Analysis The author situates the newer medium of broadband internet within the context of television, radio, the postal service, and satellite dishes in Nunavut. She argues that focusing on these persisting platforms provides insight into how internet and its issues are experienced by Nunavummiut users. Conclusions and implications Contrary to prevalent notions of innovation that privilege newness of form, the usage of persisting media can be dynamic and innovative. The evidence presented builds upon existing research on media usage by Indigenous peoples; it also suggests the potential for Indigenous-media research to reconceptualize innovation, oldness, and newness within the broader field of media and communications.