A Theoretical Framework for Assessing the Productivity of ICT Infrastructure Utilization in Human Development Policy Formulation

Abstract

A lot of research has been carried out with respect to ICT Infrastructure Investments made by nations in a bid to bridge the digital divide and improve quality of life and the Human Development Index (HDI). With a strong argument being made in the literature for continued investments in ICT Infrastructure, this research proposed a novel framework for measuring the productivity of the utilization of ICT Infrastructure with respect to the educational component of the HDI. This theoretical framework was tested using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The research also investigated the relative efficiency and productivity of ICT Infrastructure Utilization in Education. The research employed the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and Malmquist Index (MI) non-parametric research methodology with countries grouped into clusters or regions with each region becoming a Decision-Making Unit. Findings show a relatively efficient utilization and marginal growth in productivity for some regions and a marginal decline in others.