The Internet offers the opportunity to foster knowledge
sharing which surpasses constraints such as geographical location,
resources and time for travel. Online collaboration tools open up
opportunities for new forms of knowledge sharing. For example, joining
an online network can provide access to an abundant resource of
individual experts. Online networks can also provide an efficient and
effective way of accessing information.
Dgroups
Realizing this potential, IICD together with seven other development
organisations, founded Dgroups. This online platform is tailored to the
needs of Southern development professionals, and includes several
features that are useful for the target group. The Dgroups platform can
be completely email based, which is the most appropriate approach for
low bandwidth users. Users can participate in discussions, share
resources, links and events related to the topic of their Dgroup, as
well as fill in their own personal profile within the platform. The
functionalities provide the most basic needs for online networking,
knowledge sharing and collaboration.
Most of the National ICT4D Networks make use of a Dgroup to foster
knowledge and information sharing in addition to their other knowledge
sharing activities and products. For examples, visit the National Knowledge
Sharing page.
Many thematic groups within the National ICT4D Networks also use a
Dgroup, such as:
- GINKS Women in ICT4D (private)
Dgroup to discuss and identify opportunities, innovative projects,
challenges and activities, that can help women realise their potential
through the use of ICT.
- TIC-EDU-BF (open)
Dgroup to exchange information specifically focussed on ICT in
education in Burkina Faso.
- I-Network Health Node (private)
Dgroup created to enhance the sharing of information which will result
into improved knowledge and skills hence improved quality of healthcare
services at all levels in the health sector.
Joint Ventures
Alongside the use of Dgroups for online networking and knowledge
sharing, IICD has also undertaken a variety of online joint ventures
with other NGOs for the benefit of Southern development professionals
involved in ICT for development. These include:
- iConnect
This is an online knowledge sharing platform, partly funded by BCO,
which distributes ICT4D related news from various sources in its
monthly eBulletin, as well as publishing articles from Southern
journalists on the impact of ICT4D in their respective countries.
- iTrainOnline
ItrainOnline responds to the need for a single source on the web
containing a selection of the best and most relevant computer and
Internet training resources for development and social change.
- Communication
Initiative
IICD has collaborated with the Communication Initiative to foster the
dissemination of publications on Case Studies and National ICT4D
Policies.
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The International Institute for Communication and Development (IICD) is a non-profit foundation that specialises in information and communication technologies (ICTs) as a tool for development.