Telecommunications and Socio-Economic Development

Scope of Module 5

The main focus of this part is to familiarise learners with issues of development in relation to ICTs. Learners will understand the benefits of telecommunications to socio-economic development. This section also identifies the constraints of the ownership and use of ICT for development. It deals with identifying various aspects of development and locating the roles that ICTs play in these aspects.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this study unit you should be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the concept of development
  
• Explain the role of information and communication technologies (ICTs) and telecommunications in development of rural areas
  
• Explain the social constraints that act as barriers to the use and ownership of ICTs, especially in developing countries
  
• Distinguish between the characteristics of a culturalistic and a technological-economic, and other perspectives on the impact ICTs have on community development.

Introduction

This study unit discusses the role of ICTs in development, an issue visited by many theorists in the area of development communication. The study unit defines relevant issues in development, including rural and sustainable development, and explains how ICTs can play a positive role in these processes. Problems of developing countries that inhibit development are also discussed, as well as strategies that can be used to overcome these problems, using ICTs as part of the solution. The role of ICTs and telecommunications in socio-economic development is also discussed in detail. The social constraints that act as barriers to the use and ownership of ICTs, especially in developing countries are explained. Finally, conclusions are made on all the issues raised in the study unit and a brief summary of the discussion is provided at the end of the study unit. Let us review the role of ICTs and telecommunications on development.