Digital InequalityDenise Holder

EDTECH 501Boise State University

Summer 2013

What is digital divide?

-noun

informal the gap between those who have internet access and those that do not

digital divide. (n.d.). Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition. Retrieved July 14, 2013, from Dictionary.com website:http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/digital divide

Digital divide is not specific enough

Digital inequality

is more specific

Reason for digital inequality

Gender

Reason for digital inequality

Education

Reason for digital inequality

Socioeconomic status

Reason for digital inequality

Age

Reason for digital inequality

Geography

Reason for digital inequality

Lack of access

Reason for digital inequality

Lack of skills

Focus on my students

Lack of access+Lack of skills = Digital inequality

Examples of our inequality

Lack of Access

• Not enough computers

• Connectivity

• Computer lab that is consistently booked

• Limited or no access to computers at home

Examples of our inequality

Lack of Skills

• Minimal keyboarding experience

• Low literacy levels

• Cannot use programs

• Unsure how to navigate once on internet

What Can I Do?

How can I help my students and families?

Solutions for Access Inequality

Closing the access inequality gap

Grant for computers to check out

Closing the access inequality gap

Reconfigure the computer lab schedule

Closing the access inequality gap

Broadband access for those in need

Closing the access inequality gap

Restructure available time

Closing the access inequality gap

Bring your own device

Solutions for Skills Inequality

Closing the skills inequality gap

Keyboarding practice at least 3 times/week

Closing the skills inequality gap

Tech buddies with 5th graders

Closing the skills inequality gap

Teach students and families how to use technology tools

Closing the skills inequality gap

Teach students and familieshow to use programs and

applications

I can do it!