Humanitarian Technology for Sustainable Development
What is the difference between a ""humanitarian activity"" and ""humanitarian technology""? How can we determine whether a project in which we are involved is humanitarian in nature, and if the technology it employs is appropriate for the setting and stakeholders? Science, technology, and innovation are key tools that can help the world to make significant progress in its work to address the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. However, it is absolutely vital to assess the impact and potential for harm that introducing new technology into a community could have before the project is underway. This will help ensure that projects generate the desired outcomes. After taking this course, you will be able to:
- Appreciate the roles technology can play in sustainable development and humanitarian activities.
- Consider the framework of “Appropriate technology” (AT) and its benefits for finding technological solutions that benefit the community as a whole.
- Understand and assess the trade-offs when choosing a technological solution and planning its deployment.
Finding a technological solution that answers the local needs and utilizes local resources is a vital component to any successful humanitarian technology and sustainable development project. Thought-provoking readings, examples, and exercises throughout the course reinforce this concept, and provide participants with the tools to evaluate their own projects for appropriate technology.
Audience: Volunteers who are interested in learning about sustainable development and applying their technical skills by getting involved in humanitarian and sustainable development projects.
This is the fourth module of the Humanitarian Technology and Sustainable Development at IEEE curriculum. We recommend you complete the first three classes in the curriculum before beginning in order to build upon the foundation of information. "
Instructors
IEEE Humanitarian Technologies (HT) is a consortium of programs and initiatives—supported by a global network of volunteers and technical professionals—working together to apply technology to solve the world's most pressing problems.
In keeping with the IEEE mission of advancing technology for the benefit of humanity, IEEE HT provides the resources, partnerships, and tools for developing and deploying innovative solutions to advance sustainable development goals globally while achieving social and environmental impact locally.
For more information, visit htb.ieee.org.
Publication Year: 2020