The penetration of digital technology has impacted the entire human society. The education sector is benefiting widely from innovations and digital gadgets.
Today, educators use a variety of learning management systems due to technology. Students can access online lectures in real time. They receive essays and research paper assignments online.Β
Although digital technology has penetrated society, the digital divide is widening. Regardless of the opportunities offered, the widening gap is a critical challenge. All stakeholders need to collaborate and seal or minimize the gap. Bridging the gap can help ensure equal access to education.
A deeper look at the digital divide
Computer manufacturers began to lease computers into the market in the mid-1970s. Some educational institutions started to use the machines by the early 1980s. Within 35 years, at least 72% of households were using digital technology in homes. This wider access opened new opportunities for learners to access online education. Unfortunately, it also opened another door for widening the digital divide.
For instance, in the US, 87% of households use digital gadgets. Yet, only 73% have connected WIFI in their homes. The report by ThoughtCo shows the rest of the population relies on public hotspots or low-speed internet. Low-income people including the homeless lack internet connection. A student from the affected households may have challenges when they need to write a research paper. They may have challenges when they need to research for essays. The main advantage they have is that every student can access the essay writing service EduBirdie. It’s a well-known service that has been serving students for many years.
Many students lack ICT skills which hinders them from solving technical issues. The digital divide means the growing gap between those with access to digital gadgets. It refers to the gap between those with ICT knowledge and those without. This disparity is especially critical in the educational sector.
It is making learning the necessary digital skills harder. Due to the gap, students cannot fully engage themselves in online learning. Stakeholders must identify the underlying causes. Once they identify them, they should create workable solutions. Stakeholders in this sector may include a large number of individuals and sectors. They may include:
- Digital gadget manufacturers around the world.
- Software and app developers
- Educators in different education fields and levels
- Education departments
- Students
Understanding the different dimensions and root causes of the digital divide
The main disparity comes due to the wider gap in access to technology and the internet. Stakeholders need to create strong policies. These should address the unique challenges faced in the educational sector. These policies should seek to close the gap. It should ensure more learners get access to digital technology. They need to spread awareness of the gap and its different forms. Closing the gap involves implementing a complex strategy. Its different dimensions and root causes may include the following.
- Gaps in digital knowledge. Lack of digital knowledge hinders students from using modern devices.
- Gaps in device ownership. Some students rely on family-owned devices. This hinders them from accessing more online learning resources. They get challenges researching essays and other forms of writing.
- Lack of digital device integration in education. Some schools lack robust programs that teach technology.
- Unreliable internet connection. Students may lack access to online resources due to poor internet connection.
One of the major root causes is the divide between urban and rural lifestyles. A student in urban setups may have higher access to the technology. The widening social and economic gaps make the situation worse. Learners in different generations may have varied rates of technology adoption. Other impacting factors include the educational quality offered. Geographical and cultural gaps are also major causes of disparities.
Bridging the gap to guarantee fair access to technology in the classroom
To bridge the gap, the education sector’s stakeholders must adopt a diversified strategy. The strategy needs to contribute to lessening the gap. It should provide fair access to technology. It requires steadfast commitment and collaboration in the classroom. To find long-lasting answers, the teams need to think outside the box.
They must establish an inclusive learning environment for all learners. Every student should be able to take advantage of technology to its fullest potential. It ought to enable learning and individual development by putting each idea into action. The following are a few potential approaches for closing the gap.Β
Invest in developing infrastructure. Infrastructure development should be prioritized. Institutions and governments should focus on geographic areas with the least access. They may focus on broadening the infrastructure to connect more students online.
Programs for digital skills should be integrated. It is important to include programs that educate students about existing digital places. Developing training programs can assist in providing students with the necessary tools. Digital tool safety should be taught in schools.
The integration of data in education. Data can assist stakeholders in choosing the best course of action. It assists in determining the regions with larger gaps. It enables them to modify their strategy and help concentrate on particular areas.
Bringing down the price of gadgets and Wi-Fi. Offering gadgets and Wi-Fi at reasonable prices can enable more individuals to access digital technology. When applied to students, this strategy is more beneficial. More students will have access to the use of current technology if the cost is decreased.
Providing training for educators. More students will have access to current technologies thanks to teacher training. Teachers with training may inspire students in a variety of ways. They can offer help and direction in selecting the appropriate digital technology.
Building partnerships with the private sector. Partnerships with the commercial sector result in greater advantages. Some of the best talents are likely found in the private sector. By acting as role models, they can encourage learners to embrace using technology even more.
Conclusion
More learners will gain if the digital divide in education is closed. It guarantees that students use their digital skills and promotes equity. Building inclusive systems is a need for education agencies and schools. They should treat equal access to technology as a necessity. They can achieve this by including digital literacy in educational initiatives. The price of devices and software needs to be reduced by manufacturers and retailers. Schools should collaborate with the private sector and train educators.