Our world is increasingly digital, but we are leaving our most vulnerable citizens behind.
Credit: siulesoj | ©Sxc.hu/siulesoj
To the casual observer, it seems that everyone in our American society is technologically literate and has ready access to the internet. Most jobs now require basic computer skills and social networking sites are rapidly supplanting the stereotypical perpetual teen phone call. Schools introduce computer use in the early elementary level, and require computer use to complete assignments by the middle and high school levels. Laptop computers are on the must-have list for college students. It appears that computers and the internet are inexorably intertwined with everyday life, and we can hardly imagine life without them.
The problem is that techno-literacy and access aren't nearly as pervasive as we believe. Statistics show that only 61.8% of US households have computers and only 54% have high speed internet access. (Statistics are from "A Nation Online: Broadband Age 2004", http://www.ntia.doc.gov/reports/nationonlinebroadband04.htm) What these statistics do no show is that those who have ready access to computers and the internet are far more likely to be in higher socio-economic strata. They are more likely to be more highly-educated and be in the middle or upper class. We, as a society, are rapidly leaving many families behind in this area. The digital divide is very real and it is growing.
There is a pronounced trend among government and service agencies to digitalize forms and put information on the internet. It's an understandable cost-cutting measure because it allows twenty-four hour access with fewer staff persons. The problem is that many people who need to access those services are the very same people who do not have the equipment or knowledge to do so. According to A Nation Online: Broadband Age 2004, statistics indicate that internet usage for persons who do not have their high school diploma or GED is approximately 15.5%. This is the same population that often needs to access social services and unemployment assistance, and these services have been digitalized. Service offices expect their clients to use skills and equipment beyond their means to get the help they need.
The problem is that techno-literacy and access aren't nearly as pervasive as we believe. Statistics show that only 61.8% of US households have computers and only 54% have high speed internet access. (Statistics are from "A Nation Online: Broadband Age 2004", http://www.ntia.doc.gov/reports/nationonlinebroadband04.htm) What these statistics do no show is that those who have ready access to computers and the internet are far more likely to be in higher socio-economic strata. They are more likely to be more highly-educated and be in the middle or upper class. We, as a society, are rapidly leaving many families behind in this area. The digital divide is very real and it is growing.
There is a pronounced trend among government and service agencies to digitalize forms and put information on the internet. It's an understandable cost-cutting measure because it allows twenty-four hour access with fewer staff persons. The problem is that many people who need to access those services are the very same people who do not have the equipment or knowledge to do so. According to A Nation Online: Broadband Age 2004, statistics indicate that internet usage for persons who do not have their high school diploma or GED is approximately 15.5%. This is the same population that often needs to access social services and unemployment assistance, and these services have been digitalized. Service offices expect their clients to use skills and equipment beyond their means to get the help they need.
Comments
Rhonda Parish
(Guest)
(Guest)
04/25/2008
Very informative article. We only have dial-up internet service, and that sometimes can be very frustrating. I know when my kids were in school, I had to make extra trips into town so they could use the computers at the library because we didn't have one to use at home. Every week, some homework required the computer. Alot of the elderly in my town tho are given a chance to learn about the internet. Places are offering free computer classes for them to learn. I think its a great idea.
Great topic and interesting statistics for the digital divide. I can't imagine a day in my life without access to a computer or the Internet. However, I refuse to get a cell phone that allows me to text message! It is a matter of principle for me - a kind of statement against all the unnecessary technology geared toward young kids - and the technology that is killing people on the highways. Enough is enough - but I suppose there will always be more flash for each generation.
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