Third-Level Digital Divide in English Teaching and Learning

Abstract

This article describes how information and communication technologies (ICT) are growing important in English teaching and learning. Based on the model of digital divide, this article focuses on the third-level digital divide. Through interview and large-scale survey by using a questionnaire designed based on a digital divide model, this article attempts to determine the gender differences in the third-level digital divide in English teaching and learning, together with correlations between attitude toward ICT, educational level and economic status. It is concluded that (1) there are significant gender differences in the third-level digital divide in English language learning and teaching; (2) there is a significant positive correlation between attitudes toward ICT and the third-level digital divide in English learning and teaching; (3) there is significant positive correlation between educational level and third-level digital divide in English learning and teaching; (4) there is significant positive correlation between economic status and the third-level digital divide in English learning and teaching. Advantages and disadvantages of this article and future research directions were also discussed.