The DEEL (Digital Equity, Engagement & Literacies) unit conducts research on participation and citizenship in the digital age. We study these issues from different angles such as digital equity research, digital and media literacies, ICT for Development, as well as democratic citizen participation and engagement. Our aim is to contribute to an inclusive and just digital society by focusing on digital equity, participation, social justice, epistemic justice, literacies and diversity. We pursue this work with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and their principle of “leaving no one behind.”
Promoting digital equity is a central theme in our research agenda. All individuals and communities should have equitable access to digital technologies and skills. We investigate how existing disparities, which may limit people’s ability to access essential services and engage fully and safely in society, can be better understood and effectively reduced.
As a part of this, we work specifically on digital and media literacies. We study how citizens can better develop the skills and competences to use and understand digital technologies and media actively, creatively, critically, and consciously, enabling them to participate in the digital society in meaningful ways.
Moreover, we believe that civic engagement can lead to more inclusive decision-making processes. By developing participatory approaches, such as citizen science, we foster ownership and empowerment among individuals and communities, helping to achieve more sustainable and just outcomes. Therefore, we collect data, identify problems, and advocate for solutions that address the disproportionate burdens faced by disadvantaged communities.
Within these different research contexts, the DEEL unit collaborates closely with partners around the world, such as the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in South Africa, Universidad Católica Boliviana San Pablo in Bolivia, through joint research projects and a shared PhD programme.
METHODOLOGIES, APPROACHES AND GOALS
We apply a diverse set of methods and tools from participatory research and deliberative democracy to ensure that individuals are included in decision-making processes and can shape the change. Examples include co-creation, citizen science, future workshops, digital storytelling, and participatory policy analysis.
In line with our research community, we also integrate policy analysis, scenario building, interviews and focus groups, participant observation, and mixed-methods approaches.
The unit also produces strategical guidance for policy formulations and context research for policy development, as well as (societal) impact assessments.
KEY RESEARCH AREAS
- How can we support citizens’ capacities and literacy skills for civic participation in the digital age?
- How can we understand equity and literacies in the context of AI?
- How can we support citizens in accessing and meaningfully engaging with information, media, data, AI and technology in general?
- How can we empower citizens, including marginalized and vulnerable groups, in civic participation processes in the digital age?
- Which participatory approaches can we apply to foster collaboration among stakeholders in society?