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Connecting the Unconnected in the Global South: Bridging the Digital Divide from a Critical Perspective

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Freedom and Social Inclusion in a Connected World (ICT4D 2022)

Abstract

Extant literature on information and communication technology for development (ICT4D) has increased the understanding of specific aspects of digital inclusion and development. However, theoretical questions regarding local social issues discussed by locally based researchers remain underrepresented in the ICT4D realm. Through a narrative review of the digital inclusion studies in IS literature and applying as the theoretical lenses the capability approach, network society and critical consciousness, this study proposes a Digital Inclusion for Emancipation (DI4E) conceptual model. This model recognizes the digital inclusion dimensions, as well as the underlying assumptions and limitations in the context of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Grounded on a critical interpretive approach, the main objective of the study is to shed light on the different aspects and viewpoints of digital inclusion from a local perspective to unveil potential challenges and opportunities to promote emancipation for the most marginalized groups.

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Correspondence to Ana Paula dos Santos Tavares .

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dos Santos Tavares, A.P., Sahay, S., Joia, L.A., Fornazin, M. (2022). Connecting the Unconnected in the Global South: Bridging the Digital Divide from a Critical Perspective. In: Zheng, Y., Abbott, P., Robles-Flores, J.A. (eds) Freedom and Social Inclusion in a Connected World. ICT4D 2022. IFIP Advances in Information and Communication Technology, vol 657. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-19429-0_29

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