IT and Development

IS483

Half/ full unit

Half

Dr S Madon, Room NAB 3.36

This course is an option for the MSc in the Analysis, Design and Management of Information Systems, MSc Development Studies, MSc Development Management and MSc Media, Communication and Development. Other MSc students may follow this course and extra readings on information systems concepts will be provided.

This course is a half-unit version of IS475 IT Policy and Development and cannot be taken with the latter course.

This course is concerned with understanding the theoretical linkage between IT and Development and with investigating this linkage in various application areas.

The course will commence with foundation sessions covering concepts of development and information systems leading to a discussion of the different viewpoints found in the literature about the role of IT in achieving development. The course will then proceed with a number of topic sessions covering a range of themes which may include:

• e-commerce in developing countries
• global software outsourcing
• e-governance for development
• telecentres
• ICT and non-governmental development organizations
• health informatics in developing countries.

Lent term

Seminars

10 x 2 hours

Lent term

Workshops

8

Student-led discussion sessions take place during the course based on selected readings around a particular theme. Each session is led by 2 students and feedback is provided on the coverage of concepts and critical understanding demonstrated by the presentation. Students submit and discuss their proposals for the 5000 word assignment with feedback provided both in class and through individual consultations.

• Krishna S. and S Madon, (2003) The Digital Challenge: information technology in the development context, Ashgate,
• Walsham, G. and Sahay, S. (2006) "Research on Information Systems in Developing Countries: Current landscapes and future prospects", Information Technology for Development, 12, 1, pp. 7-24.

Selected references from other books and journals will be provided

A three-hour examination in the Summer term.