ICT4D, Overview of Theories in

The information and communication technology for development (ICT4D) field is strongly interdisciplinary and draws upon fields such as development studies, information systems, computer science, geography, management studies, media and communication studies, design science, gender/feminist studies, and a large number of disciplines. In the past two decades, a growing number of theories has been developed and applied to generate scholarly insight and improved understanding of practical and policymaking. The boundaries of the literature are blurred in this area, making it challenging to provide a relatively short entry, and it is impossible to offer exhaustive coverage. The aim of this entry is to provide an introduction to several key theoretical perspectives that are frequently cited and that may be considered to be influential in the field and to outline some of the main understandings of ICT4D. Keywords: actor–network theory; capability approach; diffusion of innovation theory; ICT4D; institutional theory; structuration theory; sustainable livelihood framework; technology acceptance model

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