Chapter 19 introduces the impact of the global digital divide. According to the authors, countries that lag behind the rest of the world’s ICT capabilities encounter difficulties at various levels. In

ITS 832 Chapter 19 eParticipation , Simulation Exercise and Leadership Training in Nigeria: Bridging the Digital Divide Information Technology in a Global Economy Dr. Mike Peterson Overview • Introduction • Theoretical Framework • Application of eParticipation • Leadership Training in Nigeria • Conclusions Introduction • Digital divide • Access to information and communications technology (ICT) • Increasingly difficult for lagging countries • eParticipation • Increasing utilization of ICT in eGovernance • Key to bridging the digital divide • Lagging countries need ICT capacity to support eParticipation • Nigeria • Sample case • Leaders not well versed in technology • How can eParticipation and leadership training bridge the digital divide? Theoretical Framework • Theories of eParticipation capacity application • Structuration theory • Structures are produced and altered as a result of human activity (i.e. as a response to needs) • Institutional theory • Institutional environment influences existing structures by incorporating innovative new ideas • Actor -Network theory • Individuals are separate actors • Relationships between actors are mapped, forming networks • All influence • Principles • Practices Application of eParticipation in Simulation Exercise • Digital Opportunity Index (DOI) • ICT performance indicators • eParticipation when applied to simulation exercises • Involve use of ICT as tools • ICT tools in eParticipation include • Connection devices • Visualization and engagement software • Social media interaction Leadership Training in Nigeria • National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) • Nigerian leadership training institution • Government think tank • Crisis Simulation Game • Players are briefed on theme, rules, roles, scenario • Study game theme was “political zoning” • Nigerian application of eParticipation is basic • Less sophisticated than most other nations • Lagging behind generally • Personnel were eager to incorporate more advanced ICT Conclusions • Nigerian NIPSS Crisis Simulation Game • Case study for assessing digital divide • Main conclusion: digital divide is a global problem • Not a local one • Must be addressed from the bottom up • Recommendations • eParticipation must be more globally available • Less developed countries must prioritize move toward eGovernance • Citizens must be encouraged to engage in eParticipation • eParticipation , eGovernance , and eDemocracy legislation is beneficial at all levels of government • The UN should continue to improve programs that support eParticipation