TASCHA researchers lead program on ICTs and research in Ghana

TASCHA researchers lead program on ICTs and research in Ghana

Interested in developing countries, technology, and culture? Are you a student at the University of Washington? If so, TASCHA Research Faculty Araba Sey and Researcher Chris Rothschild are leading a program this summer in Ghana that could be perfect for you and your education. This Exploration Seminar focuses on research, development, communication, and technology. The seminar is four-weeks long and students can receive graduate or undergraduate credits.

Program description

Access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) in Ghana ranges from no access in many rural areas to access comparable to some major US cities. What strategies do people with low incomes use to connect to others and get the information they need? How does this impact their lives? We can get answers to these questions through research and direct experience. Whether you are interested in the uses and impacts of ICTs on the lives of people in developing countries, or more generally in information and communication in another country or learning about how to do field research, this seminar is an opportunity to explore researched-based learning through immersion in the people and culture of Ghana.

In this seminar, students will examine how people in different types of communities (urban and rural) use ICTs in their daily activities and how they feel about the impacts on their well-being. In contrast to historical notions of development where outside agencies determine goals with little input from the target populations, we will focus on development from the perspective of low-income populations. Students can apply the experience to their individual areas of interest, whether they be information systems, health, education, or other fields. The program will provide instruction and practical experience on using field research methods to investigate the role of ICTs in the livelihoods of low and middle-income populations. If you are interested in ICTs, development, or just want to learn more about conducting field research, we encourage you to apply!

Information sessions

• Tuesday, January 29, 12:00–1:00pm, Roosevelt Commons Building 402
• Monday, February 4,  1:30–2:30pm, Mary Gates Hall 258

For more information and to apply, please visit the program website. Applications are due March 1, 2013.