and those without access.
This article explains what the digital divide is and its global consequences.
What Is the Digital Divide and Why Is It Important?
The exact definition of the digital divide has evolved alongside technological advancements.
Lack of internet access means limited access to education, job opportunities, medical information, and social communities.
Consequently, students without internet access were left behind.
These disparities can have devastating life-long consequences.
), and the education necessary to use those devices.
Another reason for the digital divide is the lack of government investment in infrastructure.
In many parts of the world, people have internet-enabled devices, but there’s no internet connection available.
Poorer nations in the global south are also less likely to have internet access.
Businesses without an online presence can’t compete in the global economy.
The digital divide exacerbates existing social inequalities, such as the income gap between women and men.
The digital divide isn’t just a concern for poorer nations.
All nations would benefit from a better-connected world.
recommends that countries collaborate to invest in communications infrastructure and digital literacy programs.
States have implemented similar programs.
Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma have provided laptops and internet access for over one million students.
For example, Net Neutrality policies preventinternet service providers (ISPs)from creating fast lanes for certain companies.
Net Neutrality legislation will be essential to ensuring fair access at the national level.
FAQ
Younger and older generations may experience a digital divide based on experience level with technology.
Young people who grew up with the internet have a high level ofdigital literacy.
They can use and communicate through all kinds of technology.
People learning technology later in life might need more guidance to become comfortable with it.
The digital divide can add to or be a part of the knowledge gap.
Theknowledge gap theorysuggests that wealthier people have more immediate access to information from various media.
People with fewer financial resources might not have the technology to find this information.
This lack of access also means potentially missing out on the chance to develop digital literacy.
