Observations on the role of digital social innovation for inclusion

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Eckhardt, Jennifer^* | Kaletka, Christoph | Pelka, Bastian

Affiliations: TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author: Jennifer Eckhardt, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany. Tel.: +49 231 8596 268, E-mail: [email protected].

Abstract: The paper exploits an extensive quantitative case mapping to blend three strands of research: First, social innovation is considered as an approach to leverage inclusive societies. Secondly, ICT is understood as a means to empower people with activity limitations; and thirdly, the availability and accessibility of societal structures is regarded as a lens for investigating the permeability and inclusiveness of society. The analysed cases shed light on the phenomenon of “digital social innovation for inclusion” and allow first insights into their practice and characteristics. The paper illustrates a quantitative overview of the actors behind these initiatives, their structures and drivers and barriers. In conclusion, the phenomenon of “digital social innovation for inclusion” is described in contours.

Keywords: Inclusion, social innovation, digital empowerment, digital inclusion, ICT

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-170183

Journal: Technology and Disability, vol. 29, no. 4, pp. 183-198, 2018