Internet access varies between socio economic, geographic, and demographic charateristics, as well as between countries
What is the digital divide?
The differing access to computing devices and the Internet, based on socioeconomic, geographic, or demographic characteristics
The digital divide can affect both groups and individuals
The digital divide raises of issues of equity, access, and influence, both globally and locally
The digital divide is affected by the actions of individuals, organizations, and governments
Actions
How does someone empower themself in a digital world?
Someone can empower themself in a digital world by making sure that they are trained in digital literacy. The American Library Association (ALA) defines digital literacy as “the ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills.” By being digitally literate, one can ensure that they are using technology to its fullest while avoiding the dangers that come with being online.
How does someone that is empowered help someone that is not empowered? Describe something you could do at Del Norte HS.
Someone that is empowered could help someone that is not empowered by sharing resources needed to connect to the Internet and train them to become digitally literate. At Del Norte HS, in particular, you could make sure that your peers have the means to connect to the internet.
Is paper or red tape blocking digital empowerment? Are there such barriers at Del Norte? Elsewhere?
Red tape is blocking digital empowerment because people will be less likely to want to connect to the digital world if they must go through several steps in order to do so. These barriers exist in Del Norte in the form of firewalls and restrictions, as faculty will have to go through several steps in order to equip students with appropriate resources for a class. Elsewhere, connecting to the internet can be a complicated and expensive process, especially if one lives in a rural area.