Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Mind the Gap
According the reading "in the most basic sense, the digital divide is the ever-growing gap between those people and communities who have access to information technology and those who do not,"the text also talks about the digital divide being the most important civil rights issue facing our modern information economy. With so many people not having access to the Internet studies are showing the direct link between household earning and education as being one of the biggest reasons people may not have a computer in their homes or have access to the Internet. The reading also says the digital divide could change with five issues being addressed by Americana's, access, content, literacy, pedagogy, and community. "Giving people access to technology is important, but it's just one of many issues that need to be considered. Schools, libraries, and community centers are taking that firsts step in getting wired, but they must also consider the needs of the learners, the teachers, and the communities that support them."
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4 comments:
You mention the correlation between income and people having the internet and that is such a good point, especially with the difficult financial times that as a country we are facing. If a family needs to cut back on their expenses, the internet would be one of the things that would get cut. Good post
Holly,
you are right on. Isn't it interesting that those of us who use the internet and other technologies all assume EVERYONE does when in fact there are several people, (especially children and senior citizens), in the country who are excluded due to economics and lack of training.
As you mention, the articles talk about even if everyone had the technology, they still would need the know-how. Who will teach them the skills. Who will lend a hand in training, outreach etc.
I think you make a great point in mentioning that we as a nation need to consider the needs of the learners as well as teachers since the learners needs are at different levels.
good post.
Jennifer
Hey Holly,
Not sure how to respond to your post since I cant distinguish your voice from your summary.
Do you think it is fair to assume the majority if American internet users use the internet for educational purposes? Lets say most of the American internet users received proper training, even then do you think the majority would use the internet for educational purposes?
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