Working Group on Low Tech Environments

Classifying Variables of Low Tech Environments

We worked to better understand the variables and dynamics of what makes up a low tech environment so that we can better understand how to unpack responsible engagement and ownership with communities in human rights documentation.

User Variables

• Literacy
• Language
• Tech capacity
• Accessibility and availability of the tech
• Population density
• Inequities (gender, race, class, etc)
• Opportunity to engage (time, freedom, awareness)

Infrastructure Variables

• No internet (bandwidth)
• Cell network coverage
• Physical infrastructure (roads, cars, trains)
• Freedom of expression legally enabling environment
• Bandwidth
• Hardware
• Degree of electrification

Dynamics that get harder and easier depending on degree of techification of project

• Security
• Trust
• Verification of data
• Equity of access
• Safety/consequence
• Informed consent
• Follow-up (growing the community by continuing to engage with them)