Information Communication Technology and Its Impact on Rural Community Economic Development

Abstract

Much rhetoric has been expended by researchers and advocates alike regarding the transformational effects of information communication technology (ICT) on economic and social conditions. Most such rhetoric posits very positive outcomes from the impending changes, economic development being just one of several. This research reports the findings of a three-year effort to determine whether such claims are actually being experienced in rural areas where access is often restricted because of public and private policies. The research findings highlight the importance of social conditions on the capacity of rural communities to effectively harness the potential of ICT for beneficial purposes.