Wireless grids for cultural self-preservation: Assessing e-readiness in a Native American Nation

The role of wireless grids for distributed coordination and their suitability for sustainable cultural self preservation was assessed through a series of focus groups conducted in cooperation with a Native American Nation. After providing contextual information and definitions for key concepts in our research (wireless grid technologies, indigenous knowledge and the right to culture preservation in indigenous cultures) we discuss cases of indigenous communities using ICT as a tool for preserving their traditions. The paper then discusses the findings from focus groups on readiness for innovation in a Native American Nation. We report on the urgency of the felt need for taking positive steps toward cultural self- preservation as well as the interest in ICTs as tools to assist in this effort. We conclude that the focus groups validated our expectations that the application of wireless grid technologies and their potential wider use can be a valuable tool for cultural self preservation.