Digital Divide

Learnings from the materials

Digital divide is more than just an access to internet and computers and cannot be alleviated merely by providing the necessary equipment. Other factors apart form digital access present significant impact. Such factors include information accessibility, utilization and reception of information. Most people are not aware of the internet and computer usage at any particular time. Some have access to the computers but do not know how to use it. Knutson who stays in the reserve with his cellphone claims that “If I had someone to teach me how to use (the internet), I absolutely would use it”. If he had the knowledge on computers, he could have used it easily and get the associated benefits.

Surprising note

It is surprising that across the states in the USA including Washington DC, more than 15% of the people have no internet access. It is not just about computers and digital devices but income is the major factor that creates divide in terms of internet access. Lloyd Levine said “The internet is an essential, integral part of civic life in America in 2020. People who don’t have access to the internet at home suffer demonstrable educational and economic harms.” It is also surprising to note that for most of the learns it was their first time getting the internet after during corona virus when volunteers drop off loaner computers and even help learners to sign up for free Wi-Fi hotspots. It is unfair because the kids who need intervention and help in school are the ones who do not have internet access.

What I took away from the materials

Digital divide stems from poverty and the economic barriers that limit resources and prevent people from obtaining or otherwise using newer technologies. Living without computers or internet is a reality for many elementary students from immigrant families. Access to computers and internet is not the only factor for the digital divide. Information accessibility is a major factor in computer usage. Pandemics worsen economic structure and creates unemployment keeping more families with less expendable income to pay for devices and cover internet costs. If we do not take step to ensure that people learn about the technology, people will remain unaware of the technological benefits and the digital divide will widen.

Thinking

It is clear that technological change is inevitable, we have to live with it. We have to accept the situation and find ways to ensure that computers and internet connection reaches each and every citizen. We cannot reap the full benefits of the digital age without mobilizing global cooperation to close digital gaps and reduce potential harms. We have the know how and resources required to close the digital divide. All we need is the will and the bravery to implement training and provide each households internet access. Information and internet professionals have the ability to help in bridging the gap of the digital divide by providing information services and extensive trainings to citizens. Such approaches will help people to utilize technologies to which they seek access regardless of their economic status.