PEARL: Women Empowerment in ICT Through Social Media Engagement

The aim of the PEARL project is to empower women in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector by fostering inclusive, respectful, and equitable engagement on social media platforms. The project seeks to develop and evaluate digital nudging approaches that encourage positive interactions and reduce discrimination against women online, thereby fostering safer and more equitable digital environments.

To achieve this, the project integrates insights from nudge theory and the Spiral of Silence theory to understand and influence online behaviour. By examining the social and psychological factors that discourage individuals particularly women, from voicing their opinions, PEARL aims to design digital interventions that promote open, empathetic, and respectful communication. These interventions, such as social and prompt nudges, will be embedded within social media interfaces to gently guide users towards more inclusive online conduct without restricting freedom of expression.

Through these efforts, the project aspires to create a digital culture where women feel empowered to participate fully and safely, contribute their expertise, and shape public discourse in ICT. Ultimately, PEARL aligns with the broader goals of gender equality (SDG 5) and inclusive societies (SDG 16), contributing to a future where digital spaces reflect diversity, respect, and equal opportunity for all.

Objectives:

1. Evaluate the Spiral of Silence Theory in the context of social media and women in ICT, exploring how gender dynamics influence individuals’ willingness to express opinions and challenge online discrimination and incivility.
2. Investigate and design effective nudging approaches for social media platforms to encourage civil discourse, inclusivity, and proactive engagement in addressing gender equality violations against women.

Partners:

Lead Institution: University of Galway

Collaborating Partners: Atlantic Technological University

Outputs:

Workshops and Participant Engagement Activities:

• One pilot workshop has already been conducted to understand the process of co-design of digital nudges for women empowerment, with the help of ICT-related individuals.
• Another workshop is planned to co-design and evaluate digital nudges, by following a participatory design approach, aimed at empowering women in ICT sector through inclusive social media engagement.