In order to utilize full potential of information and communications technologies (ICTs) for promoting economic growth and addressing various social issues, we need to take various steps such as expansion of infrastructure and building capacity of people and society to be ready to use ICTs, in addition to research and development of technologies. Policy intervention is necessary as the utilization of the full potential of ICTs cannot be accomplished, if solely relying on market competition.
In the first stage of this course, explanation will be provided on importance of social expansion of ICTs, mainly focusing on network technologies such as the Internet. Basic knowledge required to understand relevant policies will be also introduced.
Then the course will pick up specific case studies for each sort of ICTs policy practices, to discuss how that policy making was triggered and what impacts the policy brought about, with viewpoints of international comparison. Moreover, students will be welcomed to participate in active discussion on certain topics.