Paper Number
ECIS2026-1510
Paper Type
CRP
Abstract
In highly digitalized societies, becoming a digital citizen is a crucial aspect of immigrants’ integration. However, research shows that digital skills alone are insufficient for meaningful participation in a digital society. This study adopts the capability approach to explore what digitally proficient immigrants need to pursue digital citizenship and examines the role of technologies in shaping these capabilities. We conducted a qualitative study in four highly digitalized Nordic countries, using surveys and interviews as data generation methods. Our findings reveal four key capabilities, along with the associated resources and conversion factors, and demonstrate how technologies can leverage their development. This research contributes to Information Systems literature on social inclusion in highly digitalized societies. From a practical perspective, our insights inform policymakers about the challenges immigrants face and highlight opportunities to enhance digital solutions and integration processes.
Recommended Citation
Crivellari, Ilaria; Parmiggiani, Elena; and Pappas, Ilias, "Fostering Digital Citizenship: A Capability Approach To Immigrants’ Inclusion In Highly Digitalized Societies" (2026). ECIS 2026 Proceedings. 4.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/ecis2026/govtrans/govtrans/4
Fostering Digital Citizenship: A Capability Approach To Immigrants’ Inclusion In Highly Digitalized Societies
In highly digitalized societies, becoming a digital citizen is a crucial aspect of immigrants’ integration. However, research shows that digital skills alone are insufficient for meaningful participation in a digital society. This study adopts the capability approach to explore what digitally proficient immigrants need to pursue digital citizenship and examines the role of technologies in shaping these capabilities. We conducted a qualitative study in four highly digitalized Nordic countries, using surveys and interviews as data generation methods. Our findings reveal four key capabilities, along with the associated resources and conversion factors, and demonstrate how technologies can leverage their development. This research contributes to Information Systems literature on social inclusion in highly digitalized societies. From a practical perspective, our insights inform policymakers about the challenges immigrants face and highlight opportunities to enhance digital solutions and integration processes.
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