Welcome to the DEAR Lab
“Digital equity refers to the state where every person and community has the necessary information technology resources to participate in society, democracy, and the economy fully.” – Internet Society Foundation
The Digital Equity Action Research (DEAR) Laboratory is led by Dr. Colin Rhinesmith, Visiting Associate Professor in the School of Information Sciences. The DEAR Lab engages in community-engaged and participatory research to advance digital equity in Illinois and worldwide. We partner with community-based organizations, government agencies, philanthropic organizations, and other entities to advance mutually-beneficial research initiatives that benefit those most impacted by digital inequities.