Unintended Outcomes in Information and Communication Technology Adoption: A Micro-level Analysis of Usage in Context

Abstract

Research on the adoption and applications of information and communication technologies (ICTs) often proceeds from a systemic level concentrating on the actions of states and their agencies. Few addresses usage patterns at the individual level even as they are fundamental to an understanding of the interface between technology and users. This research uses data from interviews, questionnaires and observation to examine the patterns of ICT usage by a section of the civil society in Nigeria from a micro-level perspective. It reinforces a common fact: technologies are cultural artefacts and come with a set of ideas. However, particular usage patterns and context can converge to significantly transform the nature and functionalities of the technologies.

Keywords

context and technology ICT for development Nigeria and ICTs structuration unintended outcomes

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