Determining the Social and Policy Challenges of a Digital Future: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Rural and Regional Australia
Through the Digital Futures - Collaborative Research Network (CRN) program of work funding has been awarded to ACSBD for the following research project:
What is the project about?
The aim of this project is to model and quantify the socio-economic and policy challenges communities are facing in regional Australia, particularly in the context of rapid expansion of digital technologies. Digital technology has not only become a crucial part of economic and social development but is also a strong means of creating social capital. The Australian Centre for Sustainable Business and Development project team will investigate the potential for digital technologies as a platform for stronger social cohesion and social development in rural and regional communities.
Why is it important?
There is a clear gap in Australian public policy making in terms of its information and communication technology policy. While the provision of access to technology is important, the issue needs a detailed understanding and measurement of relationships between technology, community and public policy.
Who is involved?
University of Southern Queensland, Australian National University and University of South Australia.
How will the research be conducted?
The research will include both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data and information will be collected from both primary and secondary sources.
What will be delivered?
The study will result in a range of quantifiable outcomes including conference presentations, working papers and refereed articles.
What is the timeframe and Funding arrangement?
The duration of the project is three years (2012-15). The project received $546,775 including one post-doc and two PhD scholarships from Collaborative Research Networks scheme. Industry linkage/funding is being sought for further investigation in the area of digital economy and sustainable community development.
Project Leaders
Dr Khorshed Alam, Professor Julie Cotter, Associate Professor Margee Hume, Dr Michael Lane and Dr Jianming Yong.
Contact
Dr Khorshed Alam, Faculty of Business and Law, phone (61 7) 4731 1291 or email: khorshed.alam@usq.edu.au