Explain the concept of the digital divide. Why does the digital divide exist? List and explain three actions by government, corporations or individuals that would help eliminate the divide.

The digital divide is described in the Media/Impact text as “the gap between those who have internet access and those who do not.”  Several reasons exist for those that do not access the internet.  For some it can be financial reasons.  Perhaps they cannot afford the equipment or the access.  For some groups they are scared or intimidated to access the internet.  Perhaps they don’t have the necessary computer skills.  Some just simply don’t have access in their area.

The cost for internet access is a difficult one.  A few companies exist online that can offer free online access via telephone lines.  The experience of accessing the internet via telephone is not the best.  The access is slow and wouldn’t allow for a quality multimedia experience.  Many libraries also offer computers and access to the internet.  I think libraries should be renovated to have more computers and greater access to the internet.

The group that is scared to access the internet is a great one.  Those tend to be elderly or less educated.  In order to help them, free classes demonstrating how to use computers and the internet should be made available.  Broadband internet providers and computer manufacturers should partner to make these classes.  In turn, they are allowed to market their products and services in an attempt to generate revenue.  This will get the skills to those who would use them.

A larger broadband internet infrastructure should be built to get access to the rural areas.  Another option would be reliable internet access through cell phone signals like 3g or 4g to those homes.  It would have to be affordable.