Applied Research

Digital Inclusion

Examining barriers to technology access and developing frameworks for equitable digital participation.

Research Overview

The Digital Inclusion research area investigates barriers to equitable technology access and use across diverse populations. We examine how social, economic, linguistic, and infrastructural factors shape digital participation and develop evidence-based approaches to promote inclusive technology ecosystems.

Our research combines quantitative analysis of digital divides with qualitative studies of user experiences in underserved communities. We work closely with affected populations to co-design interventions that address structural barriers to digital inclusion and ensure that technological benefits are broadly shared across society.

Key Research Areas

Linguistic Inclusion

Researching how language barriers affect technology access and developing approaches to support linguistic diversity in digital platforms and AI systems.

Healthcare Data Equity

Examining representation gaps in health datasets and developing frameworks for inclusive data collection and algorithm development in healthcare technologies.

Digital Infrastructure Access

Analyzing disparities in connectivity, device access, and digital literacy, with a focus on rural, low-income, and marginalized communities.

Inclusive Design Standards

Developing principles and methodologies for technology design that addresses diverse user needs, abilities, and contexts of use.

Upcoming Research Projects

Global Language Technology Initiative

Developing resources and governance frameworks to support the inclusion of low-resource languages in AI systems and digital platforms.

Related focus area →

Health Data Representation Framework

Creating standards and methodologies for inclusive health data collection that ensures diverse population representation in medical AI development.

Related focus area →

Digital Accessibility Index

Developing comprehensive metrics to measure and track digital accessibility across platforms, devices, and services for users with diverse abilities.

Related program →