Paper short abstract:

This study examines how smallholder farmers use digital technology and the gender challenges they face. it found that women rely on face-to-face communication for information and feel disempowered by technology. Men also perceived smartphones can bring negative consequences and are against morality

Paper long abstract:

There is a growing body of literature that recognises the importance of digital technology in maximising agricultural production. Employing a feminist framework through narrative inquiry, this study aims to explore how men and women utilise digital technology and the gender challenges they face, not only focusing on women's experience but also delving into men’s perception of women’s mastery of technology. We conducted 20 narrative interviews with smallholder farmers in West Java Province, Indonesia. The collected data was analysed using the constructivist lens, employing narrative analysis to discern emergent themes within the interview transcript. The study revealed that gender and digital inequality persist in the smallholder community as women farmers have less access to digital technology than male farmers. There are two main themes revealed in this study; firstly, related to agricultural information sources, which women still rely heavily on face-to-face communication in seeking information; we categorised this theme as the Dependency on personal and community networks. Additionally, the study highlighted a power imbalance, as women often feel disempowered when using technology due to feelings of insecurity and a lack of confidence. This condition is exacerbated by men's perception that it is unnecessary to use smartphones if their husbands can access them. Also, men assume smartphones can bring negative consequences and are against morality. These findings suggest that raising awareness and having open discussions are important to change perceptions and promote equitable views on digital technology before taking steps to empower technology adoption.