Information and Networks for social inclusion in Latin America

Little is known about Internet use among people in later life; particularly in Latin America. The population in Latin America is still young and is currently experiencing what is called the “population dividend,” as the majority of the population is of working age. DIRSI’s research focus is on Open Data and Platforms (OPD).

The working hypothesis of this project is that the Internet provides an open tool that can be used by lower income people who wish to explore  opportunities. The project’s theoretical framework is inspired by Smith and Reilly’s 2013 publication, “Open Development. Networked Innovations in International Development” (The MIT Press and IDRC). As part of the DIRSI network, a survey of six countries will soon be undertaken. The countries will be Argentina, Mexico, Peru, Guatemala, Bolivia and Paraguay.

A representative sample of households from each country’s capitals will be selected and particiants will be randomly selected from each household. Participants will range from 13 – 70 in age. Project funding will help support deeper analysis of attitudes towards and use of technological devices (mobile phones, computers, laptops, tablets, desktops, TV sets) and the Internet from all participants over 50 years of age.