Nuances of development contexts for ICT4D research in least developed countries: An empirical investigation in Haiti

Abstract

While technology and internet has a riveting presence for most in the urban settings and developed areas, it remains at a distant periphery for many in the under-served pockets of the world. To link the appropriation of ICT for development (ICT4D) in least developed countries (LDCs) and its achievement of the development goals, we propose a citizen-centric capacity development (CCD) framework. We use the framework to guide the design, implementation, and evaluation of ICT for education (ICTE) artifacts in Haiti. To understand the contextual factors influencing participant’s intentions to use ITCE, we develop an integrated theoretical model that draws upon a popular information systems (IS) theory (UTAUT) and a behavior change model (HBM) from the public health domain. Data from 222 users is used to assess individual perceptions of ICTE benefits and barriers, and personal motivations to use ICTE. Compared to UTAUT, the results of our model better explain variations in behavior intentions of ICTE use. For practitioners, the study offers insights on what drives ICT use in LDCs. For researchers, the study generates discussion on the importance of understanding interdependencies between technology and development context. We argue that understanding these interdependencies are crucial if ICT4D interventions are to be meaningful and impactful.