Via online UI subscription, Recent research suggests that Internet usage can positively influence social capital in
rural communities by fostering avenues for voluntary participation and creating social
networks. Most of this research has examined whether Internet use is associated
with participation in local organizations and social networks but not the means by
which residents use the technology to learn about local activities. To address this
gap in the literature, the authors use a mixed-methods approach in an isolated rural
region of the western United States to evaluate how residents use their connections
to maintain local social networks and learn about local community events and
organizations. The authors show that Internet usage can play an important role in
building social capital in rural communities, thus extending the systemic model of rural
voluntary participation and community attachment. Implications for rural community
development are addressed.
Bhatnagar, Subhash (author), Dewan, Anika (author), Torres, Magui Moreno (author), Kanungo, Parameeta (author), and World Bank, Washington, D.C.
Format:
Report
Publication Date:
2003
Published:
India
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 182 Document Number: C36945
Notes:
Empowerment Case Studies. 7 pages., Recipient of the "Most Promising Social Enterprise Award 2002" by Digital Partners USA and the "Best Information and Communication Technology Story Award" by the International Institute for Communications and Development (IICD) and Infodev (World Bank).
