...The digital divide Jamie R. Harris INF103: Computer Literacy Author Note Instructor: Mathias Fok October 12, 2014 The "digital divide" refers to the fact that certain parts of the population have substantially better opportunities to benefit from the new economy than other parts of the population. Internet and computer use has undoubtedly increased in the United States and the digital divide may be smaller within certain population (Neilson 2006). The digital divide separates those who are information rich on one side from those who are poor, who live in an underdeveloped country, or who reside in a rural area with no Internet access. In 1990, 22% of all homes in the United States had a personal computer. This percentage increased to 63% by 2001, and in 2004, nearly 75% of all Americans had Internet access in their homes. While this is a high number, and growing daily (especially among multiple-computer households) there are still a significant number of people without computers or Internet access, and they are getting left behind in school and in the workplace (Bowles, M.D. 2013). Although the majority of Americans now have access to broadband, too many minorities, non-English speaking populations, and members of low income and rural communities remain disconnected. Addressing this digital divide goes beyond providing access to those without it. America must do more to ensure that those who are disconnected understand the need and value that broadband can bring to...
Words: 942 - Pages: 4
...The digital divide is an economic inequality between specific groups of people in terms of access, usage of, and ability to utilize computers and technologies. Even so, the notion of the digital divide is changing over time. When the term “digital divide” first came to, it was centered on the availability and ability to operate technology. Now because of the falling prices of technology, a bigger majority is able to gain access to some form of technology, specifically a computer. Now, the “digital divide” has a new connotation. The phrase has grown to include technological literacy and the total cost of running a computer, meaning the technical and economic ability to make full use of the technology available. This involves the access or lack or access to the Internet. The digital divide is not only an issue in lesser-developed countries, but prosperous countries have the same problem as well. These countries, even the wealthy ones, have various communities facing barriers to access a computer or the Internet, whether for economic, demographic, linguistic, or even generational reasons. By comparing the digital divide within and between different countries, ranging from the economically developed and developing, solutions can be made. The United States is one of the most developed countries and a forerunner in technological advancements for the past century. The digital divide in the US has gotten smaller over the years, but even with the low cost and easy access to technology...
Words: 1329 - Pages: 6
...Bridging the Digital Divide in America Pseftis Angelis Ethics in Information Technology Professor Jean M Mc Kenzie University of Maryland University College Abstract Years ago people said the world was flat. Later this theory was disproved when Magellan circumvented the world in 1522. In America the expression “the world is flat” relates to us all by connecting the world to us through the use of the internet. With the internet and technology connecting all of us, it is increasingly important that people have access to the internet so they too can participate in the world around them. Technology has curved the way we live our lives on a daily basis. Social media, elections, bill paying, communication, leisure entertainment and education are all done or can be done through the use of the internet. For example, teachers use technology for educational purposes giving the kids access to use computers, smartphones, tablets and the internet to search and expand the resources from what the school has to offer. Research has proven that schools and communities that have access to the internet and computers average an income $30,000 higher than those that don’t. This is the metaphorical gap we need to bridge in the United State of America. The goal is to ensure 100% of our country has access to the internet with the skills they need to utilize it and understand its capabilities. The Importance of Bridging the Digital Divide in America The term “digital divide” is often used...
Words: 2190 - Pages: 9
...INTRODUCTION: Digital divide is a term used to describe the inequality between technology haves and have nots. Sometimes, this can refer to the gaps between first world and third world countries, other times it's used to refer to differences among various population groups within an industrialized country (such as the United States). The technology being measured has been a moving target. Early news articles talked about general computer penetration among households. Then, as the Internet became more predominant, Internet access by individuals became the measure. Now, with free Internet access available through most public libraries, experts discuss the quality of access and usage. Even the term "digital divide" is controversial. "Digital" focuses attention on technology over other factors. "Divide" implies a distinct split. My opening sentence referred to haves and have nots, but can everyone really be separated into one group or the other, or is the difference more graduated?. BODY: Do you think that the digital divide is a major problem inside the United States: Why or why not? YES Digital Divide in the U.S. The Digital Divide is the gap between those who have the skills, access and resources for technology and those who do not. This divide is based on factors such as race and class. In order to have access to the Internet one must have the resource to own a computer and pay for Internet connection. Though comparatively inexpensive in the United States, the cost...
Words: 1549 - Pages: 7
...1) The digital divide is a gap many influential bodies are trying to close. How many so called solutions have actually worked and have successfully made permanent positive change in a region. Use supportive evidence in your argument What is the digital divide? For most people living in developed countries, technology is something we are all familiar with. It is fast, it is dynamic, and it changes rapidly. It is everywhere in our lives. Change is ongoing, it is constant. From the emergence of the first personal computers in the 1970s (Beekman and Beekman, 2012), to smart phones today that make earlier computers look like dinosaurs, technology has come a long way. It is so ingrained in our lives it is almost unimaginable to fathom living in a world without it. And yet, some still do. It also begs the question that if ever connectivity was lost would it cause the western world to devolve and become 2nd world countries, or even third world. This paper explores the Digital Divide as it is defined today, the areas which are most affected by this divide, and focuses on Africa, and solutions implemented to try to close the gap. The term “Digital Divide” was coined some time in the 1990s, evolving from a number of definitions. One of its earlier definitions was by Woolinksy, defined as the lack of access to computers (Gunkel, 2003). It has since evolved to be known as the social concern that various groups in the world have a lack of access to Information and Communications Technology...
Words: 6270 - Pages: 26
...1. How do you assess the value of the information you find on the Internet? How can you be sure that it is reliable and credible? There are many things you could do to assess information on the Internet. Having reliable information is extremely important when writing a paper or finding research because it is more credible and your know for sure you are passing along the correct information. One thing to look for is if the Internet site has an author and they are qualified for writing the information. You can do this by looking at their biography and looking for information about their education and experiences. It is important to check for a date and whether or not it is decently recent. If there is no date or it is really old, it may no longer be reliable information. If an article has punctuation and spelling errors, the website should not be used. Obviously, the person is not credible. When determining whether the website is credible and reliable, you should look for sources the author may have used. It is important to know where the information came from and whether or not it can be trusted. You should always look at where the information is published. It is good to find sources that came from journals and other scholarly pieces. You could also look at the reviews of the sites and see other people’s experiences on the website. If the information seems biased or opinionated it should not be used. The information should be factual based only, unless you are specifically...
Words: 921 - Pages: 4
...Digital divide The digital divide is a term which is used to describe the difference between those who have the access to the information technology this involves mobile phones, internet, computers and television and those who do not have access to these services. The expression can also represent those who have the skills and expertise to use different types of technology. The digital divide can exist between those who are living in rural areas and those who are living in urban areas. Factors that can contribute to the digital divide are economic factor, geographical factor, and fear of technology. One of the factors that contribute to the digital divide is fear of technology as many people do not use technology due to them having less confident about their ability to use computer skills. Due to the lack of confidence in which some people may show this will create digital divide between technology and themselves this means that they will find it harder to access the internet. As well as being able to find jobs. Another aspect that will result in a fear of technology is due to people fearing that others around them will laugh at them which mean that a person will have a low self esteem when trying to use technology. Furthermore factor that it’s the main issue that why people fear technology is due to people being scared of hackers and computer fraud. Overall a fear in technology will result in digital divide due to people not using technology which will mean that they will...
Words: 2268 - Pages: 10
...A 'digital divide' can be described as an economic inequality between groups, this simply refers to the amount of people that have access to the latest information technologies and to those who do not. There is a clear digital divide in our modern society, the main denominator being age. Because of the recent advancements in technology, the modern adolescent has grown up with all things digital i.e. The internet, television, games consoles etc. In complete contrast, the adults of todays world lacked most of these ‘modern day necessities’ growing up. The complete and utter difference in lifestyles has ultimately led to a rewiring of the human brain. Children of the modern world are fully adjusted to modern technology and digital media from a very early age whereas the older generation need more time to adapt to the often complicated new technology. "We see marked differences in behaviour within countries – with a clear divide between younger and older groups. Younger people are more likely to use social media and aggregator brands and in all countries they show a strong preference for online." (Newman, Nic, NN, (2013), 'Digital News Report 2013', Uneven Pace of Change - Differences between and within Countries) There are of course many advantages of the new digital society in which we live. The internet can be used as a tool to connect with people all over the world, business conferences can be held via the internet in real time saving time and money for thousands of businesses...
Words: 947 - Pages: 4
...INF 101 Digital Divide: A Global and U.S. Problem September 9, 2012 Digital Divide: A Global and U.S. Problem It is hard to imagine a home without a cell phone, computer or internet access. Yet, this happens; not just in developing countries, but here in the United States. This is often referred to as the digital divide. When a country’s citizens do not have access to or utilize digital technologies, it will negatively impact their education and economic stability. Digital divide being defined as the gap between those who can use information technology effectively and those who cannot is just one of a range of discrepancies, national and international, urban and rural, rich and poor, which afflicts low income country’s (Brooks, S., et al, 2005, Pg. 270). The digital divide impacts more than just one’s ability to shop online. Not having access to the latest technologies greatly impacts a countries survival. By increasing access to important and educational information through electronic resources a country can impact its economic future and growth. If citizens are afforded access to improved educational resources, they will benefit by developing a well-educated workforce (Brooks, S., et al, 2005, Pg. 270). Achieving this access to technology and supporting education will need to be made available to all. Before we look at this issue in the United States, let’s take a look at the issue from a more global perspective. There have been numerous studies focused...
Words: 1776 - Pages: 8
...E-GOVERNANCE INITIATIVES TO BRIDGE DIGITAL DIVIDE IN MAHARASHTRA By, Jessica Yvonne Varma (1321250) Bithika Karmakar (1321246) India is a diverse Country with different cultures, languages and religions. Some of the main challenges faced by India are its humongous growth in population, insufficient funds to meet the needs, delays in implementation of government policies etc. These are all some of the main factors which cause unequal development of society. While some people enjoy the luxury of resources, some remain left out. When we look back to the past evolution of technology in India, along with the growth and better opportunities it created, it tended to also heighten social inequalities and unrest. While internet in India has reached a peak of 100 million users (according to IAMAI report of 2012), only 20percent of urban Indians are connected and only 3 percent of rural Indians are connected. While the upper and the middle classes are enjoying the prosperity and happiness of India’s fast growing economy, the majority of our nation is left in darkness. They are ignorant to all the development. This is the digital divide that is splitting our nation apart. Bill Clinton had mentioned that “It is dangerously destabilizing to have half the world on the cutting edge of technology while the other half struggles on the bare edge of survival.” The basic requirement for reducing digital divide is to provide affordable IT infrastructure in all geographical...
Words: 905 - Pages: 4
...The Digital Divide and Society Vincen Brown Eng/147 May 2, 2015 Erin Nemiroff The Digital Divide and Society Ever wonder how the digital divide in our country could affect you and your family? The digital divide is bigger than we think, and it affects us all differently. Technology is advancing faster than anyone could have imagined 20 years ago. Some people are being left behind because they do not want to learn the latest in technological advancements. It also has an effect on our youth with how education is being taught in the 21st century. How do all of these advancements in technology affect our economy? There is a digital divide in our country's healthcare, education, and economics. Understanding the digital divide in these areas advancements in technology, education for our students, and help stimulate economic growth and progress. The digital divide has a major effect on the healthcare system and some of its features. The technology advancements in the healthcare system have been incredible over the past couple years. People are using the latest in technology to access such resources as information about an illness they could have or a person's medical records. The "The Great Digital Divide in Healthcare: Older Americans May Be Left Behind" (2014) a website that points outpatients may gain access to their medical records via smartphone, tablet, or computer. People will have access to reminders of when they are due for visits, screening...
Words: 875 - Pages: 4
...Digital Divide: Literature Review Name Institution Course Professor Date Abstract A digital divide is the economic and social inequality in relation to access to and use of information technologies among populations and demographics. This paper is a literature review of peer reviewed and scholarly articles that seek t bring the issue into perspective. The paper discusses the apparent existence of the digital divide, as well as the methods and strategies implemented to curb the divide. Schools and communities are utilizing technologies, but the gap of access and acquisition is brought in by factors such as low incomes. There is also the generational gap since the old people may not know about the technologies, or they may acquire but lack necessary skills to use them. A gap exists also among the different layers of acquisition of technology, ability to manipulate information, and consumption of information as is apparent with mobile phones. It is therefore essential to have mechanisms that narrow the digital divide by enabling internet access to all areas, and use of technologies equally n communities and in schools for all groups. The literature asserts that it may be difficult to close the gap completely, but it is possible to narrow the gap and benefit many minorities. Introduction In essence, one of the problems occurring in America recently is the digital divide apparent among populations...
Words: 2817 - Pages: 12
...INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY JOURNAL ASSIGNMENT THE DIGITAL DIVIDE The digital divide, simply put, is the gap between those people and communities with access to information technology and those without it. Yet, the fact is there are many divides, characterized by community, ethnic, economic, and age groups. These differences provide the basis for much research into internet use, and for the identification by some of the digital divide as an increasingly important feature of the growing economic and political gaps within and across 'developed' and 'developing' countries. The internet can be used as a tool for social, political and economic participation. Its facilitation of one-to-many and many-to-many communication and open publishing means that those affected by the divide may suffer disadvantages relating to education, employment and awareness of contemporary issues. The digital divide is now seen as a pressing international and consequently, much research and media attention have been directed at understanding who is affected and why. It is generally accepted that the digital divide is more than just an issue of access, and information technology training and literacy is needed to assist those affected by the digital divide, who can then create content relevant to their needs. Internet and computer use has undoubtedly increased in the United States and the digital divide may be smaller within certain populations. However, it remains a fact that poorer people may not be able...
Words: 780 - Pages: 4
...Into the Great Divide The digital divide can be understood as inequalities in four successive types of access: motivation, physical access, digital skills and different usage. It is claimed that the divide has shifted from the first to the last-called types of access in the last ten years. For the purpose of this paper I will touch base on all types of access. Disadvantages Amongst Man Contemporary research of the digital divide and digital skills is marked by a descriptive nature. Inequalities are described using simple demographics of individuals who have more or less access to computers and the Internet and a different level of digital skills. The explanation of these differences has far less attention. One of the reasons for this state of affairs is the predominance of individualistic notions of inequality. Like most social scientific and economic investigations, digital divide research works on the basis of so-called methodological individualism (Wellman & Berkowitz, 1988). Differential access to information and computer technologies (ICTs) is related to individuals and their characteristics: level of income and education, employment, age, sex, and ethnicity, to mention the most important ones. This is the usual approach in survey research, which measures the properties of individual respondents. Making multivariate analyses of several individual properties and aggregating them to produce properties of collectivities, one hopes to find background explanations. This...
Words: 2142 - Pages: 9
...The Digital Divide The digital divide is the term used to describe the difference between in technology use and availability around the world, some factors which affect the digital divide are socioeconomic, geographical and the fear of technology. Sub affecting issues are things such as age, gender, religion, income, technology available and more. Within the digital divide there are the information ‘haves’ and ‘have-nots’ this creates an inequality around the world by giving different people of different background different opportunities in life. There have been many discussions of spreading information technology to all areas of the world; however there are many issues standing in the way some of these are electricity available, physical infrastructures such as roads and bridges, the economic state of the country and the knowledge of how to use technology. Factors causing the Digital Divide Socioeconomic C:\Users\4762.DFS\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Temporary Internet Files\Content.IE5\ECKPVICJ\MC900441315[1].pngSocio comes from social and refer to a range of demographic and social circumstances, such as age, nationality & race, sex ratio, religion, culture, education and so on. Economic relates to the economic conditions, for example income, unemployment, interest rates, saving rates, taxes and so on. Socioeconomic is a factor which is the social and economic experiences that help shape a person’s personality, attitudes and lifestyle. The socioeconomic state of a person...
Words: 306 - Pages: 2
