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Putting critical realism to use in ICT4D research: Reflections on practice
Author(s) -
Smith Matthew L.
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
the electronic journal of information systems in developing countries
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.41
H-Index - 18
ISSN - 1681-4835
DOI - 10.1002/isd2.12052
Subject(s) - operationalization , epistemology , generative grammar , critical realism (philosophy of perception) , causality (physics) , sociology , frame (networking) , process (computing) , management science , engineering ethics , realism , knowledge management , computer science , engineering , philosophy , artificial intelligence , telecommunications , physics , quantum mechanics , operating system
This paper presents my reflections on adopting critical realist (CR) assumptions in information and communication technologies for development (ICT4D) research over the last decade. Critical realism, and its notion of generative mechanisms as contingent causality, offers one potential way to frame and engage in research that is compatible with the contextual nature of developing ICT4D theory. However, CR can be difficult to understand and operationalize. This paper provides practical insights on how to engage in ICT4D research underpinned by the CR philosophy of science. As such, the bulk of this paper presents insights and implications of accepting CR assumptions in the research process, looking at different elements of research (eg, including forming research questions, theory building, engaging in research). I use examples in ICT4D research to illustrate these implications.