Teknologiakerhot

Teknologiakerhot is a neologism used in some Indonesian- and Malay-language technology discourse to describe the intersection of technology with social and cultural systems at the community level. The term functions as a broad umbrella for discussions about how digital tools, hardware, and data influence everyday life and local governance.

Definition and scope: There is no formal, universally accepted definition. In current usage, teknologakerhot encompasses approaches that prioritize local knowledge, participatory design, and technologies that fit local contexts. Proponents view it as a framework for grassroots innovation, co-creation, and responsible deployment of digital tools that support education, commerce, healthcare, and civic participation.

Development and usage: The term has appeared in online forums, tech blogs, and some academic articles since the 2010s, particularly within Southeast Asian contexts. It is often discussed alongside concepts such as participatory technology and community informatics, and is sometimes framed as a counterpoint to top-down technology transfer models.

Applications and examples: Practical manifestations include community-led IoT projects, open-source hardware initiatives, digital literacy programs, and municipal pilots that emphasize user involvement and local knowledge. Critics note that broad usage can obscure boundaries and reduce specificity, underscoring the need for clear definitions in policy and research.

Related topics include participatory technology, community informatics, and technology and culture.