Constructing class boundaries: Gender and shared computing

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have been referred to as the dasiathe great equalizerpsila between men and women. Our research in India and Chile explores how gender and class identities intersect with ICTs in the context of shared computing environments with telecenters. Our study...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in2007 International Conference on Information and Communication Technologies and Development pp. 1 - 7
Main Authors Kuriyan, R., Kitner, K.R.
Format Conference Proceeding
LanguageEnglish
Published IEEE 01.12.2007
Subjects
Chile
Class
Communications technology
Computer science education
Context
Cultural differences
Development
Employment
Environmental economics
Equalizers
Gender
Global communication
Government
ICTs
India
Mobile handsets
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ISBN9781424419906
1424419905
DOI10.1109/ICTD.2007.4937390

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Summary:Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have been referred to as the dasiathe great equalizerpsila between men and women. Our research in India and Chile explores how gender and class identities intersect with ICTs in the context of shared computing environments with telecenters. Our study indicates that although these shared use projects are implemented in the name of targeting poor women, an dasiaemerging middle classpsila of women, such as stay at home mothers and young unmarried women are one of the dominant user groups in these telecenters. Women are constructing identities, trying to cross perceived class boundaries, and maintaining middle class positions through the use of ICTs and their symbolic value. This symbolic value becomes tied to linear notions and aspirations of progress, advancement, and upward mobility.
ISBN:9781424419906
1424419905
DOI:10.1109/ICTD.2007.4937390