"From the Margins to the Mainstream: Digital Technology in Educational Journeys of Marginalized Students"

• In Event: Marginalization and technology: Issues, solutions, and new approaches

Proposal

"From the Margins to the Mainstream: Digital Technology in Educational Journeys of Marginalized Students"

Abstract

This study investigates the role of digital technologies in shaping the educational journeys of marginalized students, specifically Dalit students, emphasizing how digital tools, platforms, and resources can significantly influence their learning experiences, opportunities, and ability to express personal narratives. Since the rise of smartphone usage and internet access in India post-2010, digital technologies have enabled diverse voices to participate in public discourse. As access to digital devices and the internet continues to expand, these technologies have emerged as vital resources for marginalized students, offering enhanced educational materials, personalized learning experiences, and connections to supportive communities. This paper explores the way digital media affects the opportunities and voices of Dalit students and academicians who have historically been underrepresented and whose stories have often been overlooked. Using life narratives and secondary data such as websites catering to marginalized students, students’ and academicians, social media accounts, fundraising platforms, etc., the paper explores the key questions: How do digital spaces provide platforms for marginalized students to share their narratives? What impact does sharing personal stories have on these students' sense of self-worth and their participation and negotiation in academic activities? While taking cognizance of significant barriers such as online harassment, inconsistent internet access, and socioeconomic challenges, which can hinder the full potential of digital engagement for these students, I argue that digital tools foster community, shape leisure activities, and enable marginalized groups to contribute meaningfully to mainstream academic and public debates.

Author

• SONU BAGRI, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Delhi