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Technology and Context Within Research on International Development Programs: Positioning an Integrationist Perspective
Article first published online: 10 JAN 2006
DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-2885.2003.tb00282.x
1468-2885/asset/cover.gif?v=1&s=c7273b40dcff0fbca8c1a2335b1e914cc44e7856 "Communication Theory")
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How to Cite
Houston, R. and Jackson, M. H. (2003), Technology and Context Within Research on International Development Programs: Positioning an Integrationist Perspective. Communication Theory, 13: 57–77. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2885.2003.tb00282.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 10 JAN 2006
- Article first published online: 10 JAN 2006
- Abstract
- References
- Cited By
We focus on development efforts that use information and communication technologies for educational purposes in developing nations. The oppositional nature of the approaches to development makes constructive dialogue among theoretical perspectives difficult. Using Jackson's (1996) metatheoretical classification scheme, we sort development research based on 4 possible logical relationships between technology as an artifact and the social context. Derivation of the scheme is principled rather than historical and independent of any particular theory. Focusing on assumptions about technology and context brings new understanding of each perspective and can foster a dialogue across the perspectives. Further, we offer that self-organizing systems theory possesses the potential of representing an integrationist perspective in development research.