After studying this chapter, you will be able to:

1 Identify the ways in which new media impact your life.

2 Explain why the characteristics of the First and Second Media Ages are important to your study of communication.

3 Describe the qualities of new media and how they influence communication.

4 Describe the characteristics of new media theory.

5 Explain how identity is formed through new media and their relationship to communication.

6 Examine how new media foster community.