Gender, identity and technology

Understanding the intricate and evolving role of technology in the development of social institutions, culture, identity, and interpersonal communication is a continuous academic exercise. 

Our research, primarily anchored within social science and technology disciplines, aims to understand the multi-facets, intersection, and coproduction of technology, society, culture and identity. The research foci encompass thematically broad themes such as digitalization of public services; children/youth and digital competence; women, gender and technology-driven careers; and the discourse on marginalization and the digital divide. 

Our research aims to learn more about mechanisms of technology-related inclusion/exclusion and to contribute solutions for more inclusive and progressive societies.
 

Articles

  • Gruppe med vaksne forskarar av begge kjønn står oppstilt i lobby

    A recently initiated research project seeks to develop new methods to combat online hate speech and misinformation. The project has a total budget of more than NOK 19 million and is coordinated by Western Norway Research Institute (WNRI).
    "This is an ambitious project which combines research and innovation to contribute to solving a societal problem", says project coordinator Rajendra Akerkar.

  • To jenter som ser ut som studentar, ser på ein teknisk modell med ryggen til kamera.

    Researchers at Western Norway Research Institute have conducted an evaluation of "Girls and Technology", a programme intended to inspire more girls to choose an education within technology and science. The report was commissioned by The Norwegian Directorate for Children, Youth and Family Affairs (Bufdir).

  • Foto

    Gender imbalance is a key issue in the ICT research of Western Norway Research Institute. In a recent report, two researchers gather all available statistics on the participation of women in the ICT sector, which is expected to see rapid expansion in coming years. – We aim to fill the identified knowledge gaps through qualitative research, says Hilde G. Corneliussen.

  • Gruppe bokbytur

    The Norwegian Book Town in Fjærland has the potential to become an international destination in the future, say the researchers at Western Norway Research Institute. In August, together with the key persons of Norwegian Book Town in Fjærland, they went to visit other book towns in the UK, Belgium and the Netherlands to share knowledge and inspiration.

  • Conference
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    Vestlandsforsking presented 3 papers at the Second Nordic Challenge conference arranged by the Centre for Nordic Studies (CENS), University of Helsinki, running between 7‒9 March 2018.