Research | ICTD | ICT and Public Access Impact

ICT and Public Access: Investigating the social and economic impact of public access

This large-scale study aims to answer the question – what are the observable social and economic impacts of public access to ICT?  Through in-depth, longitudinal and comparative research in 10 developing countries, a global group of researchers, led by CIS, will seek to uncover changes in the areas of employment and income generation, educational levels, civic life and engagement, government transparency and democracy, cultural language and preservation, and improved health, among others. The project explicitly considers negative impacts of public access as well.

The research will be conducted over five years divided into two stages. In 2008 researchers will conduct pilot studies in three countries to assess a variety of theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches. An extensive literature review involving researchers in Latin America, Africa and Asia will form the basis for developing these field studies.  In the fall of 2008, the research team will develop a final research design for Phase 2, the longitudinal study.

The project also seeks to advance methodological knowledge in the ICT and development field and strengthen research capacities in developing country institutions.

Further information about this project will be posted shortly.

Project Team

Chris Coward
Rucha Ambikar