Technology, Mobility, and Poverty Reduction

Abstract

(from the chapter) Information and Communication Technologies have had undeniable effects on global mobility. They not only facilitate the international mobility of goods, money, and people, they also enable the rapid, often instantaneous, transmission of thoughts, ideas, and data across the world, rendering knowledge, information, and networking opportunities essentially borderless. Depending on how they are cultivated and used, these trends can accelerate or impede efforts to advance peace, justice, and wellbeing. This chapter considers the implications of Information and Communication Technologies for global mobility and poverty reduction. First, the authors describe the technological climate in which developed and developing nations now operate. Trends and disparities in Internet usage are discussed, along with emerging changes that characterize contemporary Internet practices. The concepts of brain drain, gain, and circulation in today's technology-infused society are then considered. Two points addressed in this discussion concern (i) the effects of Information and Communication Technologies on global mobility and (ii) how Information and Communication Technologies can change - perhaps even reverse - the effects of mobility on global inequalities. Finally, the authors emphasize technology's potential to positively influence the world of aid and development by highlighting several promising initiatives which illustrate innovative uses of technology to promote humanitarian objectives. A key point conveyed throughout this chapter is that technology, if implemented effectively, has the potential to act as a social leveler by creating opportunities for all, particularly those who risk being left behind and being further marginalized. Accomplishing this aim requires active participation from a range of professionals, including psychologists, who are well-trained to deal with issues pertaining to technology acceptance, usability, virtual collaboration, and other aspects of computer-supported cooperative work. Expertise in areas such as these is essential if technology is to reduce poverty and turn global mobility into a source of "information gain" for impoverished regions of the world. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)