LAUSR

ABSTRACT Research into the increasing range of communication has largely focused around the idea of ‘communications choices’, examining why one technology is preferred over another. This study examined how two groups of Australian undergraduate students organised their use of multiple communication technologies, with the groups coming from similar academic backgrounds but separated by five years. Utilising a diary-based approach, it found that the participants used a wide range of communication technologies, from landline phones to short message services, suggesting that choice is contextual. The students used particular communications technologies for particular purposes and with particular correspondents, compartmentalising their communications by technology, person, and purpose. It also found that the way they compartmentalised their communications changed significantly over time. This is explored through the concept of communications genres.