Meanings of (Dis)Connection: Exploring Nonusers in Isolated Rural Communities With internet Access Infrastructure

• In Event: ICT Infrastructure and Divides

Abstract

While public policy worldwide has focused on providing connection infrastructure in remote areas, there are people who remain digitally excluded. Hence, it is key to explore why people, despite having connection, do not go online. As the third part of a three-year project on digital inclusion in isolated communities, this study relies on focus groups with non-users from three of these villages to unravel the elements associated with their decision to remain excluded. The main results indicate that strong ties within the community shelter their sense of isolation providing a feel of closeness, where technology is perceived as disruptive. Also, negative attitudes emerge from the discourses as the internet is associated with addiction and isolation. Finally, the absence of digital skills makes smartphones and computers a black box that leaves people with an overwhelming task. Yet, many are facing a hard choice due to their need to remain in contact with those outside the community as well as promote and develop their small ventures. Therefore, there is a cultural construction of the net as a needed progress that nonetheless does more harm than good to a tight community.

Authors

• Isabel Pavez, Universidad de los Andes

• Teresa Correa, Diego Portales U

• Javier Contreras, Universidad Diego Portales