Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to bridge the knowledge gap on how new technology, like online platforms can help people with disabilities (PWD’s) improve their capabilities.
The paper presents an interpretive qualitative case study of individuals who were all trained to be online freelancers using digital “gig” work platforms (e.g. Upwork) by “Virtualahan”, a social enterprise based in the Philippines. Data is analyzed through the lens of Bjørn Gigler’s Alternative Evaluation Framework (AEF). Interview and ethnographic data provide the evidence to analyze the achieved functionings for PWD and the barriers and facilitators of the functionings.
The findings indicate that online technology facilitated employment has wider implications than an improved financial situation. Employment through online technology increased the informants self-confidence and how they are perceived by their families.
This paper contributes to the literature on PWD’s, capabilities and online gig work, and how such work can help to build a community for PWD’s. Practical contributions of the findings for policymakers, consultants etc. are guidelines for helping PWD’s to find online employment, which can contribute to their capabilities.
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Eskelund, K., Heeks, R., Nicholson, B. (2019). Exploring an Impact Sourcing Initiative for a Community of People with Disabilities: A Capability Analysis. In: Nielsen, P., Kimaro, H.C. (eds) Information and Communication Technologies for Development. Strengthening Southern-Driven Cooperation as a Catalyst for ICT4D. ICT4D 2019. IFIP Advances in Information and Communication Technology, vol 551. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-18400-1_5
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