Initiative on Reducing the “Digital Divide”

Abstract

The “digital divide” is the gap between those able to benefit from the digital age and those who are not. The problem has two aspects: technological and sociological factors. The technical aspect is mostly infrastructure related and includes access to affordable network capacity and capable end-user equipment. The second aspect involves computer and network skills, digital literacy and the knowledge of how to make use of the technical tools for personal well-being, learning, self-sufficiency, collaboration and participation in the economy via digital means. To first order the two groups separated by the digital divide is along economic lines. Indeed, the “digital divide” has been widening in the past decade between rich and poor, creating economic and knowledge inequities. This “gulf” denies disadvantaged populations from access to timely and useful data on the Internet as they are unable or less able to obtain digital information, work from home, learn from home, receive health care services, set online appointments (e.g. vaccination), shop online, participate democratically, make use of the digital economy, or learn skills and offer skills for hire. The divide is greatly amplified and accelerated by the Covid19 Pandemic that has induced heavy reliance on remote learning, tele-presence for work, e-commerce, banking, medical consultations, etc. Efforts to equalize opportunities will require new infrastructure, financing, policy, regulations and education on how to use the medium. The problem is much more than giving computers and network services to people without access, to support, for example, securing housing, education, etc. There is a sociological aspect that involves education of the disadvantaged, especially children, on the constructive use of technology, and the opportunities available to those in need by informing and supporting them. Thus, many small and medium businesses need to be educated on how to participate in a digitized economy, and support for employers and employers is necessary for success.