Investigating gender and development discourse : an examination of the International Development Research Centre's practices
Date
2002
Authors
Dankevy, Sheri Sarah
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Abstract
This thesis explores how the discourse of Gender and Development (GAD) is practiced through the work of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC). The investigation focuses on the integration of gender considerations in four projects that use Information and Communication Technologies {ICTs) for economic and social development. The research process includes interviews, visits to the project teams, participant observation, and analysis of project and other IDRC documents. The data indicate that the implementation of GAD is dependent upon textually mediated procedures and the social and gendered contexts of the communities in which these projects are located. A number of emerging themes in the research findings include the significance of a gender expert, of women's organizations, and of establishing common conceptualizations of gender. The research suggests that the Centre should further open discursive spaces for a more holistic incorporation of GAD principles, as defined by academics and activists.