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Definition Of Digital Divide Definition Essay
Digital divide definition
Rouse (2014) defined the "digital divide" as a term that describe an inequity between people who
have accessibility to information and communication technology and those who don't or have limited
access. Digital divide occurs where there are differences between: – city and rural areas – educated
and uneducated – economic and sociological – more or less developed industrial countries (global
digital divide)
Type of digital divide
According to Nielsen (2006), there are 3 types of digital divides. They are: 1. Economic divide –
People can't afford modern technology. In some countries, they can't afford to establish
communication infrastructure. Moreover, when people don't have enough to buy food, they
definitely unable to pay for technology. 2. Usability divide – People don't understand how to use
those modern technology devices even if they have got them for free. Computer devices can be too
complicated to understand for some people. Furthermore, low literacy rate is also a problem.
Literacy is vital for self–learning or Internet usage. There are few websites that use language which
can be comprehended by low–literacy users. According to U.S. Department of Education, National
Institute of Literacy research which conducted on 2016, August 22, there are 14% of U.S. adults
who can read below basic level. 3. Empowerment divide – People don't get the full use of the
technology.
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The Digital Divide Essay
Digital divide: This is the gap between those who have computer and internet access and those who
do not. This is also whether people are computer and technology literate or not and whether they have
these facilities available to them.
Digital inclusion: This describes efforts made to help ensure everyone is able to understand and
enjoy the use of computers and the internet and the attempts made to reduce the digital divide.
Digital inclusion involves citizens being able to use online facilities and know how to use them etc
The digital divide is caused by many things. A main cause of the digital divide is income level and
cost meaning that people with a lower income are disadvantaged in that they may not be able to
afford a...show more content...
Democracy is also a factor effected by the digital divide since it may be easier for those with the
benefit of technology to take part in elections and making decisions than those without.
Economic growth is effected by the digital divide because productivity improvements tend to be
associated with the use of Information technologies and companies with these technologies may
have advantage and can compete better.
One initiative to close the digital divide is to more openly provide technology within the education
sector an example is the 2005 initiative to educate children using online facilities etc within
schools and colleges. This is one of many initiatives, the most effective initiative is to provide
technology in public places such as libraries and to have centers where people can learn ICT
(2000). This is not just applied to the UK, this is a global initiative and also developing countries
can benefit from the centres. Funding has been given for disadvantaged communities so that there is
more fairer spreas of the benefits.
Over the last 3 years the digital divide has in my opinion been narrowing this is because more and
more people in developing countries are being provided with the access to computers and technology
which without funding they would otherwise not have. More people in developing countries are able
to use a computer and this reduces the gap in the digital divide globally even though
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Essay on The Digital Divide
The Digital Divide Abstract: This paper focuses on the "The Digital Divide" and its impact on
society. It explains the different forces contributing to the gap such as social/economic status,
gender and race. It also explains why and how these factors effect this social problem, and the
possible solutions to closing the gap. Everyday there are new advances in technology taking place.
These advances have enabled teachers to improve their educating techniques in and out of the
classroom.
Unfortunately these advances are not available in all the classrooms throughout the United States;
there are certain people who are being left behind. The gap that these technologies have created is
known as "The Digital Divide". The...show more content...
Teachers don't just want students to be able to navigate themselves through the Internet they want to
show them that computers are an outlet for creativity. But, these activities can empower children to
be active participants in the newly emerging digital world. These technologies will not help anyone
gain if they do not have access to it (Honey et al, 2004).
In order for technology to be beneficial for a student's education certain factors need to be met: 1.
There must be some leadership around technology and clearly defined objectives for the students. 2.
These technologies need to be embedded throughout the curriculum not just thrown in sporadically
for the students to partake in. 3. There must be adequate technology resources in the schools
including hardware and technical support, to keep everything running smoothly. 4. There must be
recognition that real change and real results take time. 5. Evaluations must be conducted to let
teachers and school leaders know if their goals are being realized (Honey et al, 2004).
The information revolution has led to a "Digital Divide" especially between the rich and the poor.
The amount of people who now own computers and have access to the internet has increased;
unfortunately the gap between people who have access to these technologies and those who don't it
has increased as
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The Digital Divide
In 1966, the world was introduced to a television series titled "Star Trek", created by Gene
Roddenberry, portraying fantasy technology that all members of planet Earth had knowledge of. The
characters on the TV show used innovative tools such as Telepresense, Communicators, Phasers, and
Universal Translators. In modern society these tools are used worldwide but they are called video
conferencing, cell phones, taser guns, and voice recognition software, respectively. Another thing
that was implanted in the show was that the people of planet Earth all shared the knowledge of this
technology. Today, however, this is not the case. The technology of computer andInternet usage
today is only taught in some parts of the...show more content...
Therefore if a student is absent or misses a certain lesson, he/she can be able to know what was
taught through the teacher's blog on today's assignments/lessons and if they have a question or
problem they can ask through the same forum" ("Resources for Students"). The Internet and
computer technology should be available worldwide to help with education as it is important to a
country's future success.
Another detrimental factor to owning a personal computer at home is the cost. The cost of computer
technology and Internet access is far too great for the average household of third world countries to
afford. When a population is worried about nutrition, health care, and sanitary water to drink,
computer technology starts to seem less important. Kimberley Heitman addressed this in her article
titled "Internet Freedom: Controversy" by saying "At present, access to the Internet requires a stable
telecommunications system and an expensive set of hardware." By having to buy a computer
system and sustain a monthly payment of Internet access it is hard for populations who live in
poverty to obtain both things. "Telecommunication facilities are more readily available for wealthier
communities and are more attractive for developing companies to establish themselves. As a result,
poverty in less fortunate neighborhoods make it less appealing for investments by outside
companies, further aggravating the divide" (Roberts). If
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Factors Of The Digital Divide
The digital divide is in actual gap that is widening between people that have access to technology
and those that don't, and the results of having this gap are extremely disastrous.
The Digital Divide is as local as in your own town or city or as international as the next continent
over
There are several factors which increase the gap of the digital divide but the ones I selected and will
elaborating on are:
Poverty
Gender
Age
One of the major factors is of course poverty, these people simply do not have the money to buy the
equipment needed to bridge the gap, and in most cases, countries that are in poverty are more
worried about the basic things of life such as clean water, teaching hygiene and putting food on the
table, than they are about getting a computer so that they can access the internet!
Not only is poverty found in...show more content...
Because of this stereotype the female sex is not encouraged enough to actually go forward and use
the technology that is so readily available, they feel as if it's not meant for them and so in turn don't
have the confidence to use this. It seems as if industries seem to aim their products at the male sex,
using advertisements that appeal to them etc. and the females don't feel the need to catch onto the
technology needed.
Boys use computers and the Internet more than girls.
One other factor that I am going to discuss is age. How does age affect the digital divide you ask?
Well lets take a look.
Much like the gender factor this factor is mostly about stereo typing. The younger generation has
everything to do with technology aimed at them while the older generations don't seem to be
encouraged to use technology.
Another point is that because the older generations didn't grow up with technology, whereas the
younger generations have, they feel that modern technology isn't for them and so they leave it for
the younger
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Digital Identity Divide
In the article titled "The Digital Identity Divide: How Technology Knowledge Impacts College
Students" written by Joanne Goode , it is important for users to understand the use of "technology
identity"as an accurate way to measure the digital divide amongst college level students. Goode
argues that " knowing how to utilize the technological ecosystem of university life is certainly critical
for academic success"(Goode, 498). Therefore, students that possesess more technological
knowledge succeed within these academics climates due to experience , thus levels of increased
mastery. Where as students that posseses no prior technical knowledge consequently struggle with
not only the pace of the course workload , but also are extremely disadvantaged
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Essay on Digital Divide
The digital divide is a term that has been thrown around a lot lately. However, not many people
know what the digital divide is or how it affects us as computer users. There are many definitions
of the digital divide itself but few really delve into what it is in reality. Sure you can read a book
definition of a word or phrase but sometimes those definitions don't make sense. I'm here to try to
explain in simple terms what the digital divide is and how it affects you and me.
What is the digital divide? Whatis.com defines it as:
"The term 'digital divide' describes the fact that the world can be divided into people who do and
people who don't have access to – and the capability to use – modern information technology, such
as the...show more content...
Of those making over $50,000, usage increases to 53 percent. Households earning more than
$75,000 are 10 times more likely to be surfing the Net than those making less than $30,000 per
year. Most Americans know what this will lead to: 59 percent say divisions between those who
understand the new technology and those who do not will be a serious problem in 25 to 50 years."
(Tapscott 259)
Since this country is becoming more and more technologically advanced and a lot more reliant
on technology people who are now in a smaller income house will have a hard time ever seeing a
new income bracket as they will not have the skills necessary to get into a high or medium paying
job. There is, however, some hope as "the average price of a fully loaded desktop computer has
fallen 44%, to $844, in the past three years, according to market–research firm PC Data Inc."
(Compaine 289) Also, "for those who cannot afford a new computer, there will always be a brisk
market for secondhand PCs." (Compaine 290)
Computer companies have begun to realize that they must help out lower income families in order
to help bridge the digital gap. "Cisco Systems, Inc. started its Cisco Networking Academy two years
ago. It donates equipment to high schools and community centers in empowerment zones. Students
learn how to build, design, and maintain networks." (Compaine 290) This helps lower income family
members get jobs.
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What Is The Digital Divide?
What is the digital divide?
A digital divide is made up of an economic and social inequality that relates to having access, the
use of, or the impact of all digital information and different communication technologies. The
divide within different countries like when you look at the digital divide in the United States
refers to the inequalities between people and their households, the enterprise businesses, or
geographic areas, usually at different socioeconomic levels or other demographic categories. The
divide between all the countries or regions found all over the world is normally referred to as the
global digital divide which checks the digital gap between developing and developed countries on a
global scale.
Digital divide is a technological gap found between individuals, households, businesses and
geographic areas at different socio–economic levels within terms of their opportunities to be able to
access information and communication technologies (ICTs) and use of the Internet for a variety of
different activities. The digital divide is the reflection of various differences found among and within
countries. Businesses and individuals have the ability to take advantage of the Internet but this
varies significantly across developed or developing countries. Having access to all the basic
communication infrastructures...show more content...
The connection of the internet is most crucial because not much can be done if it is vulnerable or if
email services only work sometimes, it needs to be trusted and reliable. Businesses cannot install
networks is the resource availability and the support of those resources is poor. Consequently the
development speed of the new technologies is increasing the gap between people who understand
and can afford the new technology and the people who
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Are Digital Divide And Issues They Cause? Essay
Throughout the 21st first century information and communication technology have become a part
of everyday life. Many rely on it for simple task such as weather forecast, communication and
alarms and more advance tasks such as gathering information and managing bank accounts.
However not everyone has access to information and communication technology and the gap
between those who have access and those who do not can be described as the digital divide. The
aim of this research paper will be to analyse the many types of digital divide and issues they cause.
The research will then discuss three solutions that have been used in attempt to close the digital
divide with varying success.
When discussing the digital divide, it must be understood that the digital divide can be divided up
to aspects. These aspects include the global divide between countries, social divide within a
country and the democratic divide (Norris 2001) . As suggested by their names the global divide
looks at the difference that exist between developed countries and the developing countries. The
social divide focuses on the gap that exist between those who have access to information within the
same country, and the democratic divide discusses the gap between those who can incorporate and
use technology in public life and those who cannot. (Norris 2001) In terms of the global digital
divide, there has been an increase in the number of people with internet access for both developing
and developed nations. This is
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Pros And Cons Of The Digital Divide
Khim, Melanie
Engr 350
November 8, 2015
Digital Divide
The Digital Divide is a social issue referring to the different amount of information between those
who have access to the Internet and those who do not. The term is used to discuss the connectivity
gap in distinct regions and demographics. In June, a White House broadband report concluded the
divide has split us into two groups, finding that 91% of Americans has to high–speed Internet
service, while 71% of Americans are actually subscribed to broadband at home.
Many people have suggested that due to the increase of smartphones and other wireless devices, it is
the reason as to why many people have begun to refuse home broadband service. Some people
believe that mobiles are helping to close the digital divide. Now, students are turning to their
smartphones for the internet, causing them to fall behind on necessary computer skills. An April
2012 Pew Center study showed that 88% of Americans over the age of 18 own a smartphone
/wireless device, 66% of Americans aged 18–29 have smartphones, and only 57% of...show more
content...
The government found 98.18% of the U.S. population has access to such, whether it be wireless or
wireline. But getting that level of Internet in urban areas at an affordable price is difficult. Cable
and broadband companies like Time Warner Cable and Cablevision, which cover about 50 million
Americans, make it almost impossible for low–income families to have access Internet for less than
$30 per month. The bare minimum Internet contract with Time Warner Cable is $24.98/month,
plus installation, hardware and a monthly tax. This is deemed "Lite Internet," this package offers
speed of up to 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps less than the government's definition of "basic broadband." Last
year the FCC reported that 100 million people in the U.S. lived in areas where they had access to
broadband, but did not
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Significance of the Digital Divide
I would like to share with you what I have recently learned about obtaining information through the
Internet. The Internet is a tremendous potential source of information about virtually any imaginable
topic of interest. However, because there is no regulation or quality control over what people choose
to publish online, it is crucial to learn ways of distinguishing credible, reliable, factually accurate
information sources from those that are not credible, unreliable, factually inaccurate sources. For
example, websites that are maintained by government agencies, accredited university research
programs, and licensed professionals are good candidates to be considered reliable sources of
information online. Conversely, websites maintained by anonymous entities, or named entities or
individuals without any verifiable credentials in the field of information may not necessarily be such
good candidates for credible sources of online information. Furthermore, there are many websites that
are maintained by commercial interests; they may provide information that is factually accurate, but
out of context or without referencing other points of view. For that reason, it is important to know
whether a given potential source of online information is owned or sponsored by commercial
interests. I have also learned that there is something called a "Digital Divide" that pertains to the
different relative access to online information and applications available to different populations,
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Digital Divide (Digital Gap)
The digital divide (digital gap) is described as the gap separating those who have computers,
Internet access and are able to benefit from ICT and those who cannot. The digital divide is a form
of technological inequality separating the "haves" from the "haves not" and it's not just ICT
accessories but their way of life. Digital divide exists within every nation, industrialized or
developing, between those who are rich, educated, and powerful, and those who are not. Another
digital divide, less often noted, is linguistic and cultural. In many nations this divide separates those
who speak English or another West European language from those who do not. But even in the
United States, where well over 95% of all inhabitants speak fluent...show more content...
Developing countries like Zambia can benefit socially and economically from expanding the usage
of ICT and the internet at large.
The internet is a gateway that links people all around the world to use ideas and communicate
those ideas bridging the gap for countries like Zambia can create potential buyers and sellers in the
global economy and open doors of more investment and production of goods and services.
People would acquire knowledge which would help them in many ways as the world communicates
through the use of technology.
It would enhance education and teaching methods. This would also help to attract investors and
tourists.
Bridging the gap would make it possible for people to have access to information and being more
informed and educated will help make decisions by citizens that would help and contribute to the
national and international issues.
It would promote and improve healthcare provisions. (world information society, 2007)World
Information Society Report 2007 World Information Society Report 20
Ways of Bridging the
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Persuasive Essay On Digital Divide
Computers have shown to be one of the most used inventions of all time. They do basically anything
a person tells them to, and they have been included in the every–day life of people all around the
world. As we embark the twenty–first century, computers have taken over the economic, political,
and social aspects of the world, making access to this modern technology a necessity. Although
technology is used as a part of many Americans' every–day life, many people fail to acknowledge the
fact that over 2 billion people do not have any access to modern technology, causing a division in
our society. The term "digital divide" was coined to define this growing gap between the people
who do not have access to modern technology (more specifically the poor, rural, elderly, and
handicapped) and the people who do (wealthy, middle class, and those living in urban/suburban
areas). In urban areas especially, a common assumption made is that everyone has access to this
modern technology. People see technology all around them and assume it is integrated into
everyone's life. Because of the simplicity technology offers, it has become the engine behind
economics, politics, and communication. In rural areas, most people know the potential of modern
technology, but don't have the resources to achieve it. "It has been observed that households earning
incomes over $75,000 are 20 times more likely to have home internet access than those at lowest
income levels and 10 times more likely to have a
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The Digital Divide
What are the causes and consequences of the digital divide?
To what extent is there a global dimension to this divide?
Is the divide narrowing or widening?
The digital divide marks the gap between those who have access and utilize Information
communication technologies and those who lack access or ability (reference). Causes for this
division have traditionally stemmed through economic circumstance. Due to the existing
disproportions between countries economic situations, a large global dimension exists within the
digital divide. Socio–demographic factors also significantly affect ones positioning on the spectrum
of the digital divide. Through examination it becomes clear that the gap in some senses is showing
signs of narrowing. On...show more content...
Whilst there currently is lacking evidence to indicate a decline in other forms of social disparity due
to computer and Internet access, these members at the adverse end of social classes are not benefiting
through this digital emergence. Thus their position is remaining the same. On the other end of the
spectrum however, there are indicators suggesting this emergence is helping to secure or even
increase the favorable social position of these in higher social classes. Thus the digital divide is
arguable contributing towards further divisions among social classes, enhancing not only economic
division, but social hierarchy on a national and international scale.
Research suggest the environment in which a person is born into and raised, determines ones
attitudes towards new technologies (reference). This is globally and most certainly influenced
through geographic positioning, however also through the era in which one grew up. Sackmann and
Weymann (1995), developed an approached, depicting four ideal types; the pre–technical generation
(born before 1939), the generation of household revolution (born between 1939 and 1948), the
generation of advanced household technology (born between 1949 and 1964), followed by the
computer generation (born after 1964). Evidence suggests those who were born in the computer
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The Digital Divide Essay
The Digital Divide
When walking into a house, there are many things that can be seen. There may be a television, a
phone and maybe a computer. There are lights overhead and warm air all around. There is running
water and music to listen to. These may seem like no big deal, but to people in third world
countries, this is a dream. People do not realize how lucky they are and what other people go through.
If everyone could choose their lifestyle we would all be able to enjoy these luxuries, but that is not
the case. In these times we are set apart by a digital divide. A digital divide is the separation of
those who can afford technology and those who cannot. Even today, the day ofmodern technology,
more money and better lifestyles,...show more content...
They also found that fifteen percent of people over the age of sixty–five are online, while
seventy–five percent of the eighteen to twenty–nine year olds are online. Also, they found that more
women, minorities and adults who earn $30,000–$50,000 are logging on. This shows that older
people do not want to take the time and money to learn how to use a computer. They believe that it
will not be a benefit to them. It also shows that people earning under $30,000 a year, do not have
access to technology. There are many advantages and disadvantages to having a computer.
Computers intimidate many people so they choose not to own one. They feel computers waste
money and cause many problems. It costs money to buy a computer, money to have access to the
Internet and time to figure out how to work it, but there are many advantages to having a computer.
If you are connected to the Internet, you can talk to people all over the world. You can find any
public information you need at anytime. Although the Internet sounds like a fun, easy technology,
there are things that you need to watch for. If you have kids, you should have a block that restricts
where they can go. You also should watch out for viruses that destroy your computer. It does
complicate lives in some ways, but it helps make other things easier. In the United States, we do not
realize how lucky and how much better off we are than many other people. We
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The definition of the digital divide "The problem that exists because some groups of people have
the opportunity and knowledge to use computer technology and some do not" The digital divide
used to be about the gap between people who have technology and people who do not, but now it's
about people who know how to use technology and those who do not. As can be seen from the first
chart(at the top) there is huge difference between the number of people who own a smartphone
which creates a divide between those in North America and those in Africa and seen in the second
chart there is also a divide between those who use the internet and those who do not, there are
different reasons why people aren't using the internet, some say that they don't want...show more
content...
Another weakness is that teachers wouldn't be able to control what students do with their laptops
which would cause issues between teachers and students. Another strength is that students will be
able to know more than they knew before thanks to the internet. An additional weakness is that
students can tend to drift away in class when they are with their laptops because they would
normally end up looking on social media because they find the lessons boring. Strengths and
weaknesses about the Aakash tablet, Is that people on the bottom of the pyramid would be able to
buy the tablet at a cheap price, however, a weakness is that people in the area might steal them from
people. Another strength is that with the subsidisation then students get a cheaper price, so they can
use it for school. Another weakness is the specification of the tablet, it's not fast but then it's not too
slow, however, some would say that It is
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Essay on The Digital Divide
The Digital Divide
Abstract:
Around the world 429 million people are connected to the Internet. Forty–one percent of those people
can be found in North America. Although 429 million seems like a large number it is only 6 percent
of the global population (Fact Sheet, 2004). Numbers like this reflect the digital divide that has
grown since the creation of the computer and more recently, the 'Information Super Highway' called,
the Internet. The digital divide describes the issue that some people have access to and use computers
and the Internet while others do not. There are several factors that play into those that do not have
access and there are programs that have been created to close the gap between these people and
those that have...show more content...
Also English is the main language used for information on the Internet so if someone doesn't have
a good hold on the language or can't read it at all, the Internet is less useful to them. Native
Americas are also found to be on the downside of the digital divide. There is a telecommunication
band similar to the Silicon Valley called the Rio Grande Corridor that goes directly through a
Pueblo reservation but the residents have no access in their homes. Also, only a quarter of Navajo
reservation homes have telephone service (Education World, 2000).
Socioeconomic status may have an even greater effect on who is effected by the digital divide than
anything else. Studies have shown that ethnic groups of the same income level have about the same
average use of technology (Custodio, 2004). The problem is that on average, African American and
Hispanic populations have lower incomes than other Americans and they also have a lower
technology use. Households that have a yearly income of $75,000 and over average 86.3% Internet
access while households earning $15,000 and less a year average 12.7% (Fact Sheet, 2004). Not
having access to the Internet can make the situations of people in low income areas that much worse
because they will have a harder time getting out of the situation they are in without access to the
proper resources.
"Recent employment projections from the U.S. Bureau
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Essay on The Digital Divide
The Digital Divide
Digital Divide is often described as the gap between those with access to technology (e.g.
computers and the Internet) and those who have not. It is a social and political issue that started
since the early 1990's and is believed to have grown over the years. There is also such thing as
"Global Digital Divide", and this refer back to the gap between developed and developing
countries. At present, programs such as BBC's Computeraid try and help solve this social problem
by donating computers in rural areas and helping educate people. Digital Divide isn't just about the
access of people to such facilities but also described as the differing levels of IT skills within the
...show more content...
Families within this section of the society often cannot afford these technologies, and have very
little access to them, therefore hindering them from learning new skills, namely IT skills. And when
it comes to school, children from "have" families are often the ones who have good IT knowledge
and are more confident in operating tasks in the computers.
Within families, I think that there is also a gap between the younger and older generation. Many of
these technologies may not have been available to the older generations during their years in
school. Younger people are more able when it comes to computers and I think that this is evident
even in many family homes. Most families as of today have access to computers and the Internet at
home, but many parents or grandparents still cannot efficiently operate these machines. Often times,
parents cannot guide their young children using when using the computer due to lack of IT skills.
As long as there is digital divide, I think that the haves will continue to be more advantaged than the
have–nots. I think that there will be more opportunities to those who possess these IT skills – the
haves specifically, than those who have not, as most jobs these days require people to have at least
basic IT skills. More and more activities especially in schools and colleges require computers and so
it is important for many
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The Global Impact of the Digital Divide Essay
The Global Impact of the Digital Divide
History and Background
According to Fabian Koss, the "Digital Divide" as it has come to be known, is the gap between
individuals, households, businesses, and geographic areas at different socio–economic levels and
their opportunities to access information and communication technologies. This divide is most
prolific in developing countries, along with rural areas, reservations, and areas of high minority
populations in the US. The digital divide is a relatively new term in the technology world. It came
about in the mid 1990's when the Commerce Department began to notice disparities in modem
ownership and usage among US households. However the digital divide has a much larger realm of
...show more content...
Upgrades to existing phone lines are an expensive project, rural areas are already subsidized in the
telephone industry, and this creates a bottom–line type decision from Internet and phone service
providers. With all these obstacles in the way to bridge the digital divide, other important aspects
need to be realized.
Importance's of Bridging the Digital Divide
To begin, a worldly approach can be of particular interest. Within the new global economy,
countries with a low percentage of technologically savvy citizens are at a severe disadvantage in
an economic sense to more developed countries. Technology offers improvements in productivity,
knowledge, and efficiency. The benefits and resources offered in a highly technical environment
provide companies, organizations, and governmental agencies a distinct competitive advantage. As
we know, competitive advantage leads to higher profits, and a citizenship of highly satisfied
individuals. Also of importance is the theory of narrowing the income gap. That is lessening the
large gap that exists in the level of wealth and wellbeing of those how have a high income to those
at or under the poverty level. Currently 2.8 billion of the world's 6 billion people live on less than
two dollars a day. (Koss) With such a high level of poverty and underdevelopment, technology is
only widening the gap at an alarming rate. In today's society Information and Communication
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Essay about The Digital Divide
The Digital Divide
A new generation is forming the way its members will be written into history books. These are the
members of the digital culture, a lifestyle relying on the use of technology and the Internet as a tool
of communication and information–sharing. Nevertheless, as with the generations of the past, some
individuals are not participating in this new cultural experience. It is common knowledge that some
citizens do not use the Internet. Many do not use the Internet simply due to economic or social
restrictions that prevent them from easily accessing the technology. However, what is not as
common is why some members of our society are even choosing not to use the Internet. "Access,
Civic...show more content...
Census Bureau, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)
performed the research study "A NATION ONLINE: How Americans Are Expanding Their Use Of
The Internet." It is a thorough survey of 137,259 individuals from 754 diverse geographic locations
around the United States. The survey occurred in September, 2001. "Respondents," as the bureau
refers to them, took a survey via telephone and accurately provided this information about the
members of the household. The households were broken down into individuals to further analyze
differences in income, sex, age, education, location, and several other characteristics. Being a census,
the bureau creates it only to gather the information. Organizations like the NTIA analyze the
information with the goal to define the overall status of America's population. The analysis of the
statistics is able to show gaps in population that could affect the way the economy works.
Although the survey covered a vast amount of information, the only information necessary for this
study is the data involving individuals who have chosen not to use the Internet. Chapter 8 of the
report refers to the "unconnected" population. Here, the NTIA analyzes the percentage of the
population that is not connected to the Internet and asks for their reasons. According to the Bureau's
census, as of September 2001, 46.1 percent of persons and 49.5 percent of households do not use the
Internet (par.
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Digital Divide Essay

  • 1. Definition Of Digital Divide Definition Essay Digital divide definition Rouse (2014) defined the "digital divide" as a term that describe an inequity between people who have accessibility to information and communication technology and those who don't or have limited access. Digital divide occurs where there are differences between: – city and rural areas – educated and uneducated – economic and sociological – more or less developed industrial countries (global digital divide) Type of digital divide According to Nielsen (2006), there are 3 types of digital divides. They are: 1. Economic divide – People can't afford modern technology. In some countries, they can't afford to establish communication infrastructure. Moreover, when people don't have enough to buy food, they definitely unable to pay for technology. 2. Usability divide – People don't understand how to use those modern technology devices even if they have got them for free. Computer devices can be too complicated to understand for some people. Furthermore, low literacy rate is also a problem. Literacy is vital for self–learning or Internet usage. There are few websites that use language which can be comprehended by low–literacy users. According to U.S. Department of Education, National Institute of Literacy research which conducted on 2016, August 22, there are 14% of U.S. adults who can read below basic level. 3. Empowerment divide – People don't get the full use of the technology. Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 2. The Digital Divide Essay Digital divide: This is the gap between those who have computer and internet access and those who do not. This is also whether people are computer and technology literate or not and whether they have these facilities available to them. Digital inclusion: This describes efforts made to help ensure everyone is able to understand and enjoy the use of computers and the internet and the attempts made to reduce the digital divide. Digital inclusion involves citizens being able to use online facilities and know how to use them etc The digital divide is caused by many things. A main cause of the digital divide is income level and cost meaning that people with a lower income are disadvantaged in that they may not be able to afford a...show more content... Democracy is also a factor effected by the digital divide since it may be easier for those with the benefit of technology to take part in elections and making decisions than those without. Economic growth is effected by the digital divide because productivity improvements tend to be associated with the use of Information technologies and companies with these technologies may have advantage and can compete better. One initiative to close the digital divide is to more openly provide technology within the education sector an example is the 2005 initiative to educate children using online facilities etc within schools and colleges. This is one of many initiatives, the most effective initiative is to provide technology in public places such as libraries and to have centers where people can learn ICT (2000). This is not just applied to the UK, this is a global initiative and also developing countries can benefit from the centres. Funding has been given for disadvantaged communities so that there is more fairer spreas of the benefits. Over the last 3 years the digital divide has in my opinion been narrowing this is because more and more people in developing countries are being provided with the access to computers and technology which without funding they would otherwise not have. More people in developing countries are able to use a computer and this reduces the gap in the digital divide globally even though Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 3. Essay on The Digital Divide The Digital Divide Abstract: This paper focuses on the "The Digital Divide" and its impact on society. It explains the different forces contributing to the gap such as social/economic status, gender and race. It also explains why and how these factors effect this social problem, and the possible solutions to closing the gap. Everyday there are new advances in technology taking place. These advances have enabled teachers to improve their educating techniques in and out of the classroom. Unfortunately these advances are not available in all the classrooms throughout the United States; there are certain people who are being left behind. The gap that these technologies have created is known as "The Digital Divide". The...show more content... Teachers don't just want students to be able to navigate themselves through the Internet they want to show them that computers are an outlet for creativity. But, these activities can empower children to be active participants in the newly emerging digital world. These technologies will not help anyone gain if they do not have access to it (Honey et al, 2004). In order for technology to be beneficial for a student's education certain factors need to be met: 1. There must be some leadership around technology and clearly defined objectives for the students. 2. These technologies need to be embedded throughout the curriculum not just thrown in sporadically for the students to partake in. 3. There must be adequate technology resources in the schools including hardware and technical support, to keep everything running smoothly. 4. There must be recognition that real change and real results take time. 5. Evaluations must be conducted to let teachers and school leaders know if their goals are being realized (Honey et al, 2004). The information revolution has led to a "Digital Divide" especially between the rich and the poor. The amount of people who now own computers and have access to the internet has increased; unfortunately the gap between people who have access to these technologies and those who don't it has increased as Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 4. The Digital Divide In 1966, the world was introduced to a television series titled "Star Trek", created by Gene Roddenberry, portraying fantasy technology that all members of planet Earth had knowledge of. The characters on the TV show used innovative tools such as Telepresense, Communicators, Phasers, and Universal Translators. In modern society these tools are used worldwide but they are called video conferencing, cell phones, taser guns, and voice recognition software, respectively. Another thing that was implanted in the show was that the people of planet Earth all shared the knowledge of this technology. Today, however, this is not the case. The technology of computer andInternet usage today is only taught in some parts of the...show more content... Therefore if a student is absent or misses a certain lesson, he/she can be able to know what was taught through the teacher's blog on today's assignments/lessons and if they have a question or problem they can ask through the same forum" ("Resources for Students"). The Internet and computer technology should be available worldwide to help with education as it is important to a country's future success. Another detrimental factor to owning a personal computer at home is the cost. The cost of computer technology and Internet access is far too great for the average household of third world countries to afford. When a population is worried about nutrition, health care, and sanitary water to drink, computer technology starts to seem less important. Kimberley Heitman addressed this in her article titled "Internet Freedom: Controversy" by saying "At present, access to the Internet requires a stable telecommunications system and an expensive set of hardware." By having to buy a computer system and sustain a monthly payment of Internet access it is hard for populations who live in poverty to obtain both things. "Telecommunication facilities are more readily available for wealthier communities and are more attractive for developing companies to establish themselves. As a result, poverty in less fortunate neighborhoods make it less appealing for investments by outside companies, further aggravating the divide" (Roberts). If Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 5. Factors Of The Digital Divide The digital divide is in actual gap that is widening between people that have access to technology and those that don't, and the results of having this gap are extremely disastrous. The Digital Divide is as local as in your own town or city or as international as the next continent over There are several factors which increase the gap of the digital divide but the ones I selected and will elaborating on are: Poverty Gender Age One of the major factors is of course poverty, these people simply do not have the money to buy the equipment needed to bridge the gap, and in most cases, countries that are in poverty are more worried about the basic things of life such as clean water, teaching hygiene and putting food on the table, than they are about getting a computer so that they can access the internet! Not only is poverty found in...show more content... Because of this stereotype the female sex is not encouraged enough to actually go forward and use the technology that is so readily available, they feel as if it's not meant for them and so in turn don't have the confidence to use this. It seems as if industries seem to aim their products at the male sex, using advertisements that appeal to them etc. and the females don't feel the need to catch onto the technology needed. Boys use computers and the Internet more than girls. One other factor that I am going to discuss is age. How does age affect the digital divide you ask? Well lets take a look. Much like the gender factor this factor is mostly about stereo typing. The younger generation has everything to do with technology aimed at them while the older generations don't seem to be encouraged to use technology. Another point is that because the older generations didn't grow up with technology, whereas the younger generations have, they feel that modern technology isn't for them and so they leave it for the younger Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 6. Digital Identity Divide In the article titled "The Digital Identity Divide: How Technology Knowledge Impacts College Students" written by Joanne Goode , it is important for users to understand the use of "technology identity"as an accurate way to measure the digital divide amongst college level students. Goode argues that " knowing how to utilize the technological ecosystem of university life is certainly critical for academic success"(Goode, 498). Therefore, students that possesess more technological knowledge succeed within these academics climates due to experience , thus levels of increased mastery. Where as students that posseses no prior technical knowledge consequently struggle with not only the pace of the course workload , but also are extremely disadvantaged Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 7. Essay on Digital Divide The digital divide is a term that has been thrown around a lot lately. However, not many people know what the digital divide is or how it affects us as computer users. There are many definitions of the digital divide itself but few really delve into what it is in reality. Sure you can read a book definition of a word or phrase but sometimes those definitions don't make sense. I'm here to try to explain in simple terms what the digital divide is and how it affects you and me. What is the digital divide? Whatis.com defines it as: "The term 'digital divide' describes the fact that the world can be divided into people who do and people who don't have access to – and the capability to use – modern information technology, such as the...show more content... Of those making over $50,000, usage increases to 53 percent. Households earning more than $75,000 are 10 times more likely to be surfing the Net than those making less than $30,000 per year. Most Americans know what this will lead to: 59 percent say divisions between those who understand the new technology and those who do not will be a serious problem in 25 to 50 years." (Tapscott 259) Since this country is becoming more and more technologically advanced and a lot more reliant on technology people who are now in a smaller income house will have a hard time ever seeing a new income bracket as they will not have the skills necessary to get into a high or medium paying job. There is, however, some hope as "the average price of a fully loaded desktop computer has fallen 44%, to $844, in the past three years, according to market–research firm PC Data Inc." (Compaine 289) Also, "for those who cannot afford a new computer, there will always be a brisk market for secondhand PCs." (Compaine 290) Computer companies have begun to realize that they must help out lower income families in order to help bridge the digital gap. "Cisco Systems, Inc. started its Cisco Networking Academy two years ago. It donates equipment to high schools and community centers in empowerment zones. Students learn how to build, design, and maintain networks." (Compaine 290) This helps lower income family members get jobs. Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 8. What Is The Digital Divide? What is the digital divide? A digital divide is made up of an economic and social inequality that relates to having access, the use of, or the impact of all digital information and different communication technologies. The divide within different countries like when you look at the digital divide in the United States refers to the inequalities between people and their households, the enterprise businesses, or geographic areas, usually at different socioeconomic levels or other demographic categories. The divide between all the countries or regions found all over the world is normally referred to as the global digital divide which checks the digital gap between developing and developed countries on a global scale. Digital divide is a technological gap found between individuals, households, businesses and geographic areas at different socio–economic levels within terms of their opportunities to be able to access information and communication technologies (ICTs) and use of the Internet for a variety of different activities. The digital divide is the reflection of various differences found among and within countries. Businesses and individuals have the ability to take advantage of the Internet but this varies significantly across developed or developing countries. Having access to all the basic communication infrastructures...show more content... The connection of the internet is most crucial because not much can be done if it is vulnerable or if email services only work sometimes, it needs to be trusted and reliable. Businesses cannot install networks is the resource availability and the support of those resources is poor. Consequently the development speed of the new technologies is increasing the gap between people who understand and can afford the new technology and the people who Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 9. Are Digital Divide And Issues They Cause? Essay Throughout the 21st first century information and communication technology have become a part of everyday life. Many rely on it for simple task such as weather forecast, communication and alarms and more advance tasks such as gathering information and managing bank accounts. However not everyone has access to information and communication technology and the gap between those who have access and those who do not can be described as the digital divide. The aim of this research paper will be to analyse the many types of digital divide and issues they cause. The research will then discuss three solutions that have been used in attempt to close the digital divide with varying success. When discussing the digital divide, it must be understood that the digital divide can be divided up to aspects. These aspects include the global divide between countries, social divide within a country and the democratic divide (Norris 2001) . As suggested by their names the global divide looks at the difference that exist between developed countries and the developing countries. The social divide focuses on the gap that exist between those who have access to information within the same country, and the democratic divide discusses the gap between those who can incorporate and use technology in public life and those who cannot. (Norris 2001) In terms of the global digital divide, there has been an increase in the number of people with internet access for both developing and developed nations. This is Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 10. Pros And Cons Of The Digital Divide Khim, Melanie Engr 350 November 8, 2015 Digital Divide The Digital Divide is a social issue referring to the different amount of information between those who have access to the Internet and those who do not. The term is used to discuss the connectivity gap in distinct regions and demographics. In June, a White House broadband report concluded the divide has split us into two groups, finding that 91% of Americans has to high–speed Internet service, while 71% of Americans are actually subscribed to broadband at home. Many people have suggested that due to the increase of smartphones and other wireless devices, it is the reason as to why many people have begun to refuse home broadband service. Some people believe that mobiles are helping to close the digital divide. Now, students are turning to their smartphones for the internet, causing them to fall behind on necessary computer skills. An April 2012 Pew Center study showed that 88% of Americans over the age of 18 own a smartphone /wireless device, 66% of Americans aged 18–29 have smartphones, and only 57% of...show more content... The government found 98.18% of the U.S. population has access to such, whether it be wireless or wireline. But getting that level of Internet in urban areas at an affordable price is difficult. Cable and broadband companies like Time Warner Cable and Cablevision, which cover about 50 million Americans, make it almost impossible for low–income families to have access Internet for less than $30 per month. The bare minimum Internet contract with Time Warner Cable is $24.98/month, plus installation, hardware and a monthly tax. This is deemed "Lite Internet," this package offers speed of up to 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps less than the government's definition of "basic broadband." Last year the FCC reported that 100 million people in the U.S. lived in areas where they had access to broadband, but did not Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 11. Significance of the Digital Divide I would like to share with you what I have recently learned about obtaining information through the Internet. The Internet is a tremendous potential source of information about virtually any imaginable topic of interest. However, because there is no regulation or quality control over what people choose to publish online, it is crucial to learn ways of distinguishing credible, reliable, factually accurate information sources from those that are not credible, unreliable, factually inaccurate sources. For example, websites that are maintained by government agencies, accredited university research programs, and licensed professionals are good candidates to be considered reliable sources of information online. Conversely, websites maintained by anonymous entities, or named entities or individuals without any verifiable credentials in the field of information may not necessarily be such good candidates for credible sources of online information. Furthermore, there are many websites that are maintained by commercial interests; they may provide information that is factually accurate, but out of context or without referencing other points of view. For that reason, it is important to know whether a given potential source of online information is owned or sponsored by commercial interests. I have also learned that there is something called a "Digital Divide" that pertains to the different relative access to online information and applications available to different populations, Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 12. Digital Divide (Digital Gap) The digital divide (digital gap) is described as the gap separating those who have computers, Internet access and are able to benefit from ICT and those who cannot. The digital divide is a form of technological inequality separating the "haves" from the "haves not" and it's not just ICT accessories but their way of life. Digital divide exists within every nation, industrialized or developing, between those who are rich, educated, and powerful, and those who are not. Another digital divide, less often noted, is linguistic and cultural. In many nations this divide separates those who speak English or another West European language from those who do not. But even in the United States, where well over 95% of all inhabitants speak fluent...show more content... Developing countries like Zambia can benefit socially and economically from expanding the usage of ICT and the internet at large. The internet is a gateway that links people all around the world to use ideas and communicate those ideas bridging the gap for countries like Zambia can create potential buyers and sellers in the global economy and open doors of more investment and production of goods and services. People would acquire knowledge which would help them in many ways as the world communicates through the use of technology. It would enhance education and teaching methods. This would also help to attract investors and tourists. Bridging the gap would make it possible for people to have access to information and being more informed and educated will help make decisions by citizens that would help and contribute to the national and international issues. It would promote and improve healthcare provisions. (world information society, 2007)World Information Society Report 2007 World Information Society Report 20 Ways of Bridging the Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 13. Persuasive Essay On Digital Divide Computers have shown to be one of the most used inventions of all time. They do basically anything a person tells them to, and they have been included in the every–day life of people all around the world. As we embark the twenty–first century, computers have taken over the economic, political, and social aspects of the world, making access to this modern technology a necessity. Although technology is used as a part of many Americans' every–day life, many people fail to acknowledge the fact that over 2 billion people do not have any access to modern technology, causing a division in our society. The term "digital divide" was coined to define this growing gap between the people who do not have access to modern technology (more specifically the poor, rural, elderly, and handicapped) and the people who do (wealthy, middle class, and those living in urban/suburban areas). In urban areas especially, a common assumption made is that everyone has access to this modern technology. People see technology all around them and assume it is integrated into everyone's life. Because of the simplicity technology offers, it has become the engine behind economics, politics, and communication. In rural areas, most people know the potential of modern technology, but don't have the resources to achieve it. "It has been observed that households earning incomes over $75,000 are 20 times more likely to have home internet access than those at lowest income levels and 10 times more likely to have a Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 14. The Digital Divide What are the causes and consequences of the digital divide? To what extent is there a global dimension to this divide? Is the divide narrowing or widening? The digital divide marks the gap between those who have access and utilize Information communication technologies and those who lack access or ability (reference). Causes for this division have traditionally stemmed through economic circumstance. Due to the existing disproportions between countries economic situations, a large global dimension exists within the digital divide. Socio–demographic factors also significantly affect ones positioning on the spectrum of the digital divide. Through examination it becomes clear that the gap in some senses is showing signs of narrowing. On...show more content... Whilst there currently is lacking evidence to indicate a decline in other forms of social disparity due to computer and Internet access, these members at the adverse end of social classes are not benefiting through this digital emergence. Thus their position is remaining the same. On the other end of the spectrum however, there are indicators suggesting this emergence is helping to secure or even increase the favorable social position of these in higher social classes. Thus the digital divide is arguable contributing towards further divisions among social classes, enhancing not only economic division, but social hierarchy on a national and international scale. Research suggest the environment in which a person is born into and raised, determines ones attitudes towards new technologies (reference). This is globally and most certainly influenced through geographic positioning, however also through the era in which one grew up. Sackmann and Weymann (1995), developed an approached, depicting four ideal types; the pre–technical generation (born before 1939), the generation of household revolution (born between 1939 and 1948), the generation of advanced household technology (born between 1949 and 1964), followed by the computer generation (born after 1964). Evidence suggests those who were born in the computer Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 15. The Digital Divide Essay The Digital Divide When walking into a house, there are many things that can be seen. There may be a television, a phone and maybe a computer. There are lights overhead and warm air all around. There is running water and music to listen to. These may seem like no big deal, but to people in third world countries, this is a dream. People do not realize how lucky they are and what other people go through. If everyone could choose their lifestyle we would all be able to enjoy these luxuries, but that is not the case. In these times we are set apart by a digital divide. A digital divide is the separation of those who can afford technology and those who cannot. Even today, the day ofmodern technology, more money and better lifestyles,...show more content... They also found that fifteen percent of people over the age of sixty–five are online, while seventy–five percent of the eighteen to twenty–nine year olds are online. Also, they found that more women, minorities and adults who earn $30,000–$50,000 are logging on. This shows that older people do not want to take the time and money to learn how to use a computer. They believe that it will not be a benefit to them. It also shows that people earning under $30,000 a year, do not have access to technology. There are many advantages and disadvantages to having a computer. Computers intimidate many people so they choose not to own one. They feel computers waste money and cause many problems. It costs money to buy a computer, money to have access to the Internet and time to figure out how to work it, but there are many advantages to having a computer. If you are connected to the Internet, you can talk to people all over the world. You can find any public information you need at anytime. Although the Internet sounds like a fun, easy technology, there are things that you need to watch for. If you have kids, you should have a block that restricts where they can go. You also should watch out for viruses that destroy your computer. It does complicate lives in some ways, but it helps make other things easier. In the United States, we do not realize how lucky and how much better off we are than many other people. We Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 16. The definition of the digital divide "The problem that exists because some groups of people have the opportunity and knowledge to use computer technology and some do not" The digital divide used to be about the gap between people who have technology and people who do not, but now it's about people who know how to use technology and those who do not. As can be seen from the first chart(at the top) there is huge difference between the number of people who own a smartphone which creates a divide between those in North America and those in Africa and seen in the second chart there is also a divide between those who use the internet and those who do not, there are different reasons why people aren't using the internet, some say that they don't want...show more content... Another weakness is that teachers wouldn't be able to control what students do with their laptops which would cause issues between teachers and students. Another strength is that students will be able to know more than they knew before thanks to the internet. An additional weakness is that students can tend to drift away in class when they are with their laptops because they would normally end up looking on social media because they find the lessons boring. Strengths and weaknesses about the Aakash tablet, Is that people on the bottom of the pyramid would be able to buy the tablet at a cheap price, however, a weakness is that people in the area might steal them from people. Another strength is that with the subsidisation then students get a cheaper price, so they can use it for school. Another weakness is the specification of the tablet, it's not fast but then it's not too slow, however, some would say that It is Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 17. Essay on The Digital Divide The Digital Divide Abstract: Around the world 429 million people are connected to the Internet. Forty–one percent of those people can be found in North America. Although 429 million seems like a large number it is only 6 percent of the global population (Fact Sheet, 2004). Numbers like this reflect the digital divide that has grown since the creation of the computer and more recently, the 'Information Super Highway' called, the Internet. The digital divide describes the issue that some people have access to and use computers and the Internet while others do not. There are several factors that play into those that do not have access and there are programs that have been created to close the gap between these people and those that have...show more content... Also English is the main language used for information on the Internet so if someone doesn't have a good hold on the language or can't read it at all, the Internet is less useful to them. Native Americas are also found to be on the downside of the digital divide. There is a telecommunication band similar to the Silicon Valley called the Rio Grande Corridor that goes directly through a Pueblo reservation but the residents have no access in their homes. Also, only a quarter of Navajo reservation homes have telephone service (Education World, 2000). Socioeconomic status may have an even greater effect on who is effected by the digital divide than anything else. Studies have shown that ethnic groups of the same income level have about the same average use of technology (Custodio, 2004). The problem is that on average, African American and Hispanic populations have lower incomes than other Americans and they also have a lower technology use. Households that have a yearly income of $75,000 and over average 86.3% Internet access while households earning $15,000 and less a year average 12.7% (Fact Sheet, 2004). Not having access to the Internet can make the situations of people in low income areas that much worse because they will have a harder time getting out of the situation they are in without access to the proper resources. "Recent employment projections from the U.S. Bureau Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 18. Essay on The Digital Divide The Digital Divide Digital Divide is often described as the gap between those with access to technology (e.g. computers and the Internet) and those who have not. It is a social and political issue that started since the early 1990's and is believed to have grown over the years. There is also such thing as "Global Digital Divide", and this refer back to the gap between developed and developing countries. At present, programs such as BBC's Computeraid try and help solve this social problem by donating computers in rural areas and helping educate people. Digital Divide isn't just about the access of people to such facilities but also described as the differing levels of IT skills within the ...show more content... Families within this section of the society often cannot afford these technologies, and have very little access to them, therefore hindering them from learning new skills, namely IT skills. And when it comes to school, children from "have" families are often the ones who have good IT knowledge and are more confident in operating tasks in the computers. Within families, I think that there is also a gap between the younger and older generation. Many of these technologies may not have been available to the older generations during their years in school. Younger people are more able when it comes to computers and I think that this is evident even in many family homes. Most families as of today have access to computers and the Internet at home, but many parents or grandparents still cannot efficiently operate these machines. Often times, parents cannot guide their young children using when using the computer due to lack of IT skills. As long as there is digital divide, I think that the haves will continue to be more advantaged than the have–nots. I think that there will be more opportunities to those who possess these IT skills – the haves specifically, than those who have not, as most jobs these days require people to have at least basic IT skills. More and more activities especially in schools and colleges require computers and so it is important for many Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 19. The Global Impact of the Digital Divide Essay The Global Impact of the Digital Divide History and Background According to Fabian Koss, the "Digital Divide" as it has come to be known, is the gap between individuals, households, businesses, and geographic areas at different socio–economic levels and their opportunities to access information and communication technologies. This divide is most prolific in developing countries, along with rural areas, reservations, and areas of high minority populations in the US. The digital divide is a relatively new term in the technology world. It came about in the mid 1990's when the Commerce Department began to notice disparities in modem ownership and usage among US households. However the digital divide has a much larger realm of ...show more content... Upgrades to existing phone lines are an expensive project, rural areas are already subsidized in the telephone industry, and this creates a bottom–line type decision from Internet and phone service providers. With all these obstacles in the way to bridge the digital divide, other important aspects need to be realized. Importance's of Bridging the Digital Divide To begin, a worldly approach can be of particular interest. Within the new global economy, countries with a low percentage of technologically savvy citizens are at a severe disadvantage in an economic sense to more developed countries. Technology offers improvements in productivity, knowledge, and efficiency. The benefits and resources offered in a highly technical environment provide companies, organizations, and governmental agencies a distinct competitive advantage. As we know, competitive advantage leads to higher profits, and a citizenship of highly satisfied individuals. Also of importance is the theory of narrowing the income gap. That is lessening the large gap that exists in the level of wealth and wellbeing of those how have a high income to those at or under the poverty level. Currently 2.8 billion of the world's 6 billion people live on less than two dollars a day. (Koss) With such a high level of poverty and underdevelopment, technology is only widening the gap at an alarming rate. In today's society Information and Communication Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 20. Essay about The Digital Divide The Digital Divide A new generation is forming the way its members will be written into history books. These are the members of the digital culture, a lifestyle relying on the use of technology and the Internet as a tool of communication and information–sharing. Nevertheless, as with the generations of the past, some individuals are not participating in this new cultural experience. It is common knowledge that some citizens do not use the Internet. Many do not use the Internet simply due to economic or social restrictions that prevent them from easily accessing the technology. However, what is not as common is why some members of our society are even choosing not to use the Internet. "Access, Civic...show more content... Census Bureau, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) performed the research study "A NATION ONLINE: How Americans Are Expanding Their Use Of The Internet." It is a thorough survey of 137,259 individuals from 754 diverse geographic locations around the United States. The survey occurred in September, 2001. "Respondents," as the bureau refers to them, took a survey via telephone and accurately provided this information about the members of the household. The households were broken down into individuals to further analyze differences in income, sex, age, education, location, and several other characteristics. Being a census, the bureau creates it only to gather the information. Organizations like the NTIA analyze the information with the goal to define the overall status of America's population. The analysis of the statistics is able to show gaps in population that could affect the way the economy works. Although the survey covered a vast amount of information, the only information necessary for this study is the data involving individuals who have chosen not to use the Internet. Chapter 8 of the report refers to the "unconnected" population. Here, the NTIA analyzes the percentage of the population that is not connected to the Internet and asks for their reasons. According to the Bureau's census, as of September 2001, 46.1 percent of persons and 49.5 percent of households do not use the Internet (par. Get more content on HelpWriting.net