The Digital Divide

The digital divide is essentially the gap between those people who have access to and benefit from digital technology and those who do not have those opportunities. Considering the lack of Internet resources and cell phone reception in Appalachia, it is a focus-point for those who are concerned about briding the digital divide.

Legislation, specifically the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) has been passed to try to decrease the opportunity gap by increasing broadband infrastructure in lacking areas. BTOP plans to "deploy new or improved broadband Internet facilities (e.g., laying new fiber-optic cables or upgrading wireless towers)", "establish new public computer facilities or upgrade existing ones that provide broadband access to the general public" and "increase broadband Internet usage and adoption", utilizing digital literacy training among other methods.

Organizations that recieve financial aid and other resources from the BTOP legislation include the Communication Service for the Deaf, Inc., Executive Office of the State of West Virginia, Future Generations Graduate Schook, Hardy Telecommunications, Inc., University Corporation for Advanced Internet Development, the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey and WorkForce West Virginia. Together, these organizations recieved over $ 218 million to battle the digital divide. This link from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) describes each organization's project(s) in detail.

Kermit, however has not recieved any direct benefit from the BTOP legistlation, however the Catholic charity A.B.L.E. Families is able to provide Internet access and resources to students and job seekers, as described on the Internet page on this site.

In my opinion, one of the most vital aspects of the efforts to lessen the digital divide is education about digital technology and Internet safety and benefits of efficient use. As the Digital Divide Institute mentions, ineffective use of the Internet through addicting games and pointless websites may widen the gap between those benefiting from the Internet and those who are not. Therefore, education about technology safety and efficient use is a must in order to decrease the digital divide.