University ICT4D in Asia

Study to illuminate the current state and future potential of university engagement in the ICT4D activities of Asia

What is the role of the university in supporting local and national efforts to harness ICT for socio-economic development? To date, most attention in the higher education sector has focused on distance learning, e-learning, and other efforts to enhance the learning experience and extend the reach of education to remote locations and non-traditional students.

This project examines a different and as yet under-appreciated opportunity for universities to play a central role in studying and teaching about ICT for development (ICT4D), in the context of Asia. It also considers the broad societal changes that are accompanying the emergence of information societies around the world. The challenges and opportunities inherent in any socio-economic transition of this magnitude require the detached, analytical perspective that universities offer. And yet so few universities anywhere, but especially in the developing world where the need is greatest, effectively link their knowledge of information technology and human development to both understand the dynamics of ICT4D and ensure that these technologies support the developmental priorities of their communities.

Research Objectives
The objective of this study is to learn at both individual and institutional levels who is doing what, for what purposes, and with what outcomes. The study also examines barriers and reasons for a lack of activity, awareness or interest in ICT4D. Further, we aim to understand the perspectives of non-academic stakeholders in government, industry and civil society to assess the potential demand for greater university engagement in ICT4D.

Countries
Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong China, India, Indonesia, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam

Timeline
April-October 2006: Fieldwork
November-February 2007: Analysis and writing
March 2007: Project completion

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This project is sponsored by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) of Canada under a grant to Chulalongkorn University and an APEC Education Foundation grant to the University of Washington

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UICT4D: Building Networks in Asia

Contacts

Chris Coward
Center for Internet Studies

Soraj Hongladarom
Center for Ethics of Science and Technology
Faculty of Arts, Chulalongkorn University

Colin Maclay
Berkman Center for Internet & Society
Harvard Law School

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