Limited availability of functional information

The shift to technology has left many Third World rural communities behind. Villagers are still using the practical skills and information that were appropriate to another age. They may have been taught some skills - modern machines, chemical fertilisers, power saws and birth control pills are all commonly used. But the information on their use is often incomplete, and villagers lack the understanding necessary for their full application. Such partial knowledge results in villagers being unable to realize the new economic possibilities open to them, and agricultural production and small businesses are impeded by gaps in technical information. Programmes for nutrition, sanitation and preventive medicines need explanation, information and instruction on how applications for assistance must be submitted. For example, despite the general availability of building materials, old methods of extraction, preparation and shipping represent an overwhelming task; other methods may be available through government programmes, but residents are unaware of how to profit from such programmes. In general, the acquisition of functional information that could transform everyday life has resulted in only confusion.