Impact of Technology on Women: Strategies for Non-formal Education

Abstract

This article focuses on the impact of technology on women and its implications for nonformal education in developing countries. It describes how poverty and illiteracy created a distinctive gender bias in terms of women's participation in the labor force and health. Compared to men, women have lower levels of literacy, are poorer, and have more limited access to nontraditional skills. Moreover, illiteracy is associated with socioeconomic exploitation and deprivation suffered by women. It is therefore essential to identify how functional nonformal education (NFE) can help change the lives of women. To define, NFE is an integrated approach to education and training outside the formal system. It includes literacy, skills development, collaborative group activities, information, and training on issues of everyday life and work for improved health, status, and sustainable economic development. Following a discussion of the external factors that influence technology, the paper will focus on access to use of technology in two areas, namely, health and work opportunities, with emphasis on environment in both areas. It also outlines the role and responsibilities of NFE actors, the necessary infrastructures, and the barriers faced by women. Finally, the paper sets out the objectives of NFE programs, factors that determine the use of technology, strategies for NFE, and the challenges ahead.