Broadbent, Robyn and Papadopoulos, Theo (2012) Getting Wired@Collingwood: an ICT project underpinned by action research. Community Development Journal, 47 (2). pp. 248-265. ISSN 0010-3802 (print) 1468-2656 (online)

Abstract

There is increasing evidence that the lack of access to information and communication technology (ICT), or the ‘digital divide’, severely limits education, employment and economic prospects. An individual's ability to use and access computers and the internet is vital to schooling and education generally, to their ability to participate effectively in the economy, and in many cases, to access everyday services. This paper utilizes the context of an innovative ICT project in the heart of Melbourne to discuss the challenges of partnering disadvantaged communities both in project development and in this evaluation of case project. The efficacy of the project, though not under discussion, was important because it provided the evaluation with a credible vehicle in which to establish community discussion with people from a diverse range of age groups and backgrounds. Their engagement was essential not only to the research but to the overall success of the project. In a community with very low social capital, engagement in a community project takes time, commitment and good community development practice. The paper describes the process of the research in this community, reminding us that community goals can only be met if we engage the stakeholders in enacting community change.

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