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ICT4D – Concepts, Strategies and Good Practices
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:53:43
Abstract
Information and communication technologies (ICTs) represent the deepest technical change experienced in international development. Digital development strategies need to be broader than ICT strategies. This course assesses the role of ICTs in development, discusses the existing evidence on the impact of ICT on development, and introduces key concepts and methods for ICT4D practice and strategy.
Objective
Information and communication technologies (ICTs) represent the fastest and deepest technical change experienced in international development. By now, they affect every development sector – the work of farmers and micro-entrepreneurs, healthcare workers and microfinance institutions, social mobilization and political change. Yet, the ‘digital dividends’ are unevenly distributed and questions of ‘data justice’ in development are largely unexplored. To close the gap, just greater digital adoption will not be enough. Digital development strategies need to be broader than ICT strategies. This course helps to understand the role of ICTs in development, discusses the existing evidence on the impact of ICT on development, and introduces key concepts and methods for ICT4D practice and strategy.
Content
• ICTs and development: the conceptual links • The impact of ICT on development: evidence from research • Digital revolution and its analog foundations • Concepts, strategies and components needed for ICT4D to work • ICT4D and project cycle management • Good practice in implementing ICT4D • Emerging technologies and models relevant for ICT-enabled development
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DS , MSC , NDS , WBZ
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- ungraded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
ICT4D – Concepts, Strategies and Good Practices
Does not take place this semester.
Block course
Location: CLD A1
|
No time listed | 40 h semesterly |
Offered In
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MAS in Development and Cooperation (The lectures and advanced training courses of NADEL are accessible only for students of the MAS in Development and Cooperation and for qualified employees with at least two years experience in development cooperation. ETH doctoral students working on topics related to poverty reduction in low- and middle income countries may also be admitted.)
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CAS in Development and Cooperation (Takes place each spring semester and every second autumn semester (odd years).)