Digital+Divide

= ** A Deeper Look into Digital Divide ** =

Bridging

This is the idea that only those who have money will have access to the intern et. The question of where do students who are income-challenged gain the

 skills to use technology in the workplace arise. G ender, socio economic status, race, resource equity, and teacher bias all contribute to inequity in the

 school and because of this some students may not have equal access in schools.

** Gender ** "Nevertheless, many researchers argue there is a digital gender divide. Recall from that the digital divide is a concept through which the inequality in computer technology use is mapped. It refers to the gap between regions or groups of people that are left behind in use of computers and the internet and those who take access for granted"(http://www.favov.com). The digital gender divide is an extension of this concept, and focuses specifically on the inequity of women's access to and use of communication technology. **Critical Issues** ** Certain types of technology can enable women to develop their economic potential, become stronger leaders and to more effectively contribute to their families, communities and local economies. " V **arious technologies can help women increase their productivity as well as launch income-generating pursuits and entrepreneurial ventures" (www.icrw.org). **Teacher Suggestions:** Appraise girls as well as boys when they are using technology. Do not pick games that relate to boys only and most importantly offer choices. .media type="custom" key="9405682" ** Socio Econimic ** ** ﻿ ** We do know, however, that Americans with lower incomes (less than $30,000 per year) are much less likely to use a computer or have Internet access than their higher-income counterparts ($50,000 per year or more). In a recent study, Attewell (2001, p. 253) examined multiple demographic factors, specifically income, education, and race, which influence technology access (Attewell, P. (2001). The first and second digital divides. //Sociology of Education//, //74//(3), 252-260). **Teacher Suggestions** Schools may be the only time for students to have computer time so teachers need to make sure that students have equal internet access. A checklist should be used by the teacher to make sure that all students have used computers. **Race** ﻿Race is one of the biggest factors in digital divide and is linked to socioeconomic class. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: medium;">** Teacher Suggestions ** **<span style="color: #111111; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: medium; font-weight: normal; line-height: 26px;">Students from African American and Hispanic backgrounds may have less experience with technology and need more instruction on the basics of using such things as computers and the internet. Providing opportunities for minorities is imperative. **

<span style="color: #800080; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: medium;">**Teacher Bias** <span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: medium;">Teacher could have bias on students based on their race, socioeconomic class, or gender. <span style="color: #800080; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: medium;"> <span style="color: #111111; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: medium;">