|
The ‘Digital Divide‘
Despite the global spread of Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT), large parts of the world remain technologically
disconnected. For example, around 40% of people in the
UK have never accessed the Internet. On the global scale
the
figure is around 90%.
There has always been a gap between those who can and
those who are unable to access, and make effective use
of, ICTs
such as:
 |
Fixed-line and mobile telephony |
|
Internet services |
|
3G services, through portable, wireless devices, such
as mobile phones and PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants)
and Smartphones |
Use of ICT can allow access to information and services,
such as:
|
Publications, reports and presentations |
|
Electronic delivery of government services - e-government |
|
Online health information – e-health |
|
New ‘online’ business opportunities - e-commerce |
|
Online shopping |
|
New social structures – ‘online’ clubs
and communities of interest |
|
Improved distance learning opportunities - also known
as e-learning or online learning |
|
Home/remote working opportunities - teleworking |
|
More convenient and speedy communications such as email,
sms texting and instant messaging |
|
Alternative entertainment and leisure pursuits, such
as online gaming and chat forums |
|
Various sources of help and advice – e.g. Netmums – eWell-Being
Award winner 2002 |
|
Local community information |
|
Sources of funding, and much more ... |
This disparity between those that have access to ICT, and
those that don’t, means that many people and communities
are unable to reap the benefits that modern technology can
bring. This ‘gap’ is often referred to as the ‘digital
divide’ and whilst there is much activity aimed
at bridging this divide, the majority of initiatives
have the
common goal of providing people with the technology,
information and skills to assist them in realising their
potential.
Listed below are just a few of the barriers people might
face in accessing those services listed above:
|
Access to a computer or other internet-enabled device
(such as a 3G mobile phone) |
|
Lack of relevant skills |
|
Lack of confidence |
|
Perception that the internet is not relevant to their
lives |
|
Lack of awareness of access to the Internet in public
spaces (such as community centres or public libraries) |
|
Lack of interest |
For the latest official figures on home internet access
in the UK, visit National
Statistics online, which updates
information
monthly. Enter the search term ‘internet access’ into
the search box to go straight to the relevant section.
What does SustainIT do in this area?
As well as having dedicated Digital Divide / Digital
Inclusion areas in our ‘Links’ and ‘Publications’ sections,
we also feature case studies on individuals, communities
and organisations that are working to tackle the digital
divide at various levels.
|
