ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the ways in which children of immigrants use Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Language brokering has orienting, symbolic, and connective functions by allowing immigrant children to maintain ties to heritage language and culture. Given that English is a prevailing language on the Internet, use of technology may further require an intermediary such as a language broker to help guide the families’ computer-mediated interactions. The Internet has become an important informational and social tool for young people from various socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds. As might be expected, newer immigrants may be using ICTs to connect to home cultures at higher rates than second-generation youth. The symbolic function of media may shape mainstream and ethnic identity formation among young brokers. The orientation function of media has implications for acculturation processes and autonomy. The connective function of new media can address issues of attachment and family cohesion post-migration.
