Information Technology, Inequality, and Adult Literacy in Developing Countries

Simplice Asongu, Nicholas Odhiambo and Mushfiqur Rahman ()
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Mushfiqur Rahman: University of Wales, Trinity Saint David, Winchester House

Journal of the Knowledge Economy, 2024, vol. 15, issue 1, No 157, 3927-3945

Abstract: Abstract The study assesses linkages between information technology, inequality, and adult literacy in 57 developing countries for the period 2012–2016. Income inequality is measured with the Gini coefficient while six dynamics of information technology are taken on board, namely use of a virtual social network, Internet access in schools, Internet penetration, mobile phone penetration, fixed broadband subscription, and a number of personal computer users. The empirical evidence is based on interactive Tobit regressions. The findings show that only Internet access in schools unconditionally promotes adult literacy. The corresponding inequality threshold that should not be exceeded for Internet access in schools to continue promoting adult literacy is 0.739 of the Gini coefficient. Policy implications are discussed.

Keywords: Information technology; Inequality; Adult literacy; Inclusive development (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D10 D14 D31 D60 O30 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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Related works:
Working Paper: Information technology, inequality and adult literacy in developing countries (2023)
Working Paper: Information technology, inequality and adult literacy in developing countries (2023)
Working Paper: Information technology, inequality and adult literacy in developing countries (2023)
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DOI: 10.1007/s13132-023-01307-8

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