The Digital Divide: Unequal Access to Technology

These flashcards cover key concepts and factors related to the digital divide, its implications, and approaches to address the issue.

Digital Divide

Refers to the inequality in access to technology and the internet, as well as differences in digital literacy, leading to social and economic consequences.

Technology Gap

A growing problem in Canada where marginalized communities have limited access to digital resources and skills.

Factors contributing to the Digital Divide

Include lack of infrastructure, affordability, digital literacy, lack of relevance, education and training, and cultural barriers.

Infrastructure

• Physical structures needed for digital connectivity such as broadband internet, cellular networks, affordable computers or mobile devices.

• rural areas, low income communities, and developing countries are very challenged and will experience more of a digital divide

Affordability

High costs of internet services and devices act as barriers to accessing technology.

Digital Literacy

The skills and knowledge required to effectively use digital technologies, including computers and the internet.

• do you know how to get online, type up a resume, submit it, check your email, etc

• do you know how to evaluate information on the internet

Lack of Relevance

The issue when digital resources are not available in a relevant language or context for specific communities. They will be less accessible to those individuals. 

Education and Training

• Access to quality education in digital skills is crucial for bridging the digital divide.

• schools, libraries, and community centres can play role in providing digital literacy programs and training opportunities

Cultural and Social Barriers

Hesitations in adopting digital technologies due to cultural reasons or concerns over privacy and security.

Consequences of Digital Divide

Includes economic disparities, education inequities, healthcare disparities, and knowledge gaps.

Bridging the Digital Divide

Involves improving infrastructure, education, and affordable access to achieve digital equity for all.

consequences of digital divide

• economic disparities - missing out on jobs, not expanding businesses online

• education inequities

• healthcare disparities - telehealth becoming more prominent

• global development challenges - hinder access to global market and online education 

• digital redlining - service providers intentionally investing in more affluent areas

• knowledge gaps - missing news online or new information

• the above exacerbate existing inequalities and can hinder progress

Digital Equity

• The goal of ensuring that everyone can access and use technology effectively, promoting participation in the digital age.

bridging digital divide

• digital divide in Canada especially impacts low-income families, Indigenous peoples, rural communities

• need to invest in infrastructure, education, affordable access to achieve digital equity

  • increase funding to provide affordable internet access

  • expand public wifi networks in underserved areas

  • provide technology training and support to seniors and other digitally disadvantaged populations