#digitalequality

[timesofinnovation]

The Philippines is set to revolutionize connectivity across its archipelago with a comprehensive three-year network infrastructure plan aimed at enhancing access for geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). This ambitious initiative stands as a commitment from the government, aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s pledge to extend telecom services to underserved regions, thereby fostering digital inclusion across the nation. As of 2024, the plan includes the construction of new communication towers and the optimization of existing infrastructure to ensure that remote communities gain access to essential services. This means that families living in GIDAs will not only benefit from improved telecommunications but also from increased accessibility to education, healthcare, and government support systems. For instance, Globe Telecom has already established over 600 operational cell sites in GIDAs, indicating significant progress towards connecting these underserved populations. One of the key components of this plan is the introduction of subsidized SIM cards and data plans. This initiative aims to eliminate the financial barriers that prevent many households from accessing mobile services. By equipping families with necessary digital tools, the plan ensures that individuals can connect to the internet, participate in remote learning, and access vital information quickly and efficiently. Addressing regulatory challenges is another crucial aspect of this initiative. The Philippines government recognizes the pressing need for optimized network coverage, which cannot be achieved without supportive legislation. Current efforts include advocating for streamlined permitting processes for new cell site constructions, a consistent power supply for telecommunications towers, and the rationalization of spectrum user fees. These steps are designed to create a favorable environment for infrastructure expansion, ultimately benefiting all Filipinos. The importance of enhancing connectivity in the Philippines cannot be overstated. Traditionally, access to digital services has been limited, with many remote areas lagging in terms of technological development. The new infrastructure plan aptly addresses these issues and promotes inclusivity. By ensuring that citizens have access to vital communication services, the project is positioned to contribute significantly to the country’s socioeconomic growth. Moreover, this initiative has broader implications for national development. As connectivity improves, it not only enhances individual lives but also boosts the overall economy. Access to digital services can lead to new business opportunities, improved educational outcomes, and increased citizen participation in governance. Ultimately, this move is about creating a "Digital Philippines" where every citizen, regardless of geographical location, can enjoy the benefits of modern telecommunications. In conclusion, the Philippines’ move towards enhanced connectivity through this infrastructure plan signifies a major step towards digital equality. It addresses the needs of its most isolated communities while paving the way for future technological advancements. As this ambitious project unfolds, it not only seeks to bridge the digital divide but also aims to uplift the quality of life for millions of Filipinos. The future appears promising, with the goal of a digitally inclusive society clearly in sight.

[appzlogic]

Building Bridges to Inclusion: The transformative power of accessibility testing services

Accessibility testing isn't a one-time checkbox; it's an ongoing commitment to building a more inclusive digital landscape. At Appzlogic, we don't just offer Accessibility Testing Services; we stand as advocates for a more inclusive future.

Visit: https://www.appzlogic.com/accessibility-testing-services/

[adventurekatexp]

The models are all proving the bias and inequities. Minorities and the underserved are not outliers - they deserve representation too.

This is why it is so important to be critical and double check everything you generate using image generators and text-based AI.

[inovi]

Wi-Fi

Affordable Internet for all!

[socialmedialearning-forbe177]

Digital Access

The concept of the digital divide refers to the unequal distribution of access to digital technology, including the internet and digital devices, among different populations. This inequality can occur due to a variety of factors, such as economic, social, or geographic barriers. Digital equity, on the other hand, is the goal of providing equal access to digital technology to all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.

According to the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, the digital divide encompasses three main elements: access to affordable internet and digital devices, digital literacy, and technical support. The lack of access to any of these elements can create barriers to active participation in the digital world. (Pazurek and Feyissa, 2015)

In today's society, where much of our communication, commerce, and social interactions take place online, limited digital technology access, knowledge, or skills can significantly impact one's ability to participate and engage in various aspects of life. For example, individuals with limited access to digital technology may be unable to apply for jobs or access healthcare services online, while those with limited digital literacy may struggle to navigate and understand complex digital systems and information. This can lead to further social and economic marginalization.

I think that it is especially impotant to recognize that more developed economies have greater access to these digital tools. South Korea, Australia, and Canada have the highest rates of access, with over 80% in the US, UK, Spain, Israel, and Germany. (Poushter, 2016) In order to address these issues and achieve digital equity, it is essential to recognize that the digital divide is not a binary gap between those who have access and those who do not, but rather a continuum with degrees of access. Furthermore, it is crucial to move beyond singular concerns over internet access and infrastructure issues and focus on socio-cultural differences, internet skills, literacies, and social media usage.

Limited digital technology access, knowledge, or skills can also have significant implications for education. The integration of technology in education has made digital access and literacy increasingly important for educational attainment. Students with limited access to digital technology may struggle to keep up with their peers, while those with limited digital literacy may struggle to engage with online learning materials. One important thing to think about is how access to technology can help women around the world struggling with inequality of education. Women in developing countries can benefit greatly from internet access in terms of education and employment opportunities. Women in developing countries are 25% less likely to be online than men, and illiteracy is a barrier that affects women more than men. If we can work to allow more women to access the internet, we can give them opportunities they could not afford otherwise. (McCormack, 2014)

In conclusion, addressing the digital divide and achieving digital equity is an important issue in today's world, as digital technology becomes increasingly important in our daily lives. Limited digital technology access, knowledge, or skills can place individuals at a significant disadvantage in the information age, leading to further social and economic marginalization. (Radovanovic, 2011)It is essential to recognize that achieving digital equity requires more than just providing access to digital technology, but also addressing factors such as digital literacy, critical thinking skills, and collaboration and participation inequalities.

[ogchatgptlibrarian]

ChatGPT is leveraging technology to analyze large volumes of social media data and online educational resources, to identify trends and patterns in how digital technologies are impacting different groups of people. 

[juliedebilzan]

Digital Equity, Digital Inclusion, + the Digital Divide

The digital divide, as described by Pazurek & Feyissa, is the gap between individuals that have access to Information and Communications Technology, and those who do not. In my own ways, I just would describe this as the gap between people that have access to technology and those who do not. As to digital equity, Lindsey Knerl describes it equal access to technology that allows someone to be a full member of society. In my own words I would just describe this as everyone have equal access to digital media.

In my opinion, these terms go hand in hand. Without digital equity, there is a digital divide. If there is digital equity, there is no digital divide. Digital equity is important this day in age because everything has moved into the online world. Especially being a student. For an example, there was someone in my class without a computer and she wasn't able to access any of the materials online. As Danica Radovanovic states, "We must tackle socio-cultural differences, we must focus on Internet skills, literacies and social media usage." These inequalities mostly affect people in poor or rural areas of the world. She states that nonprofit and profit organizations need to make it their key mission to focus on social and digital inclusion. In my opinion especially after COVID this digital divide has become even bigger because these kids that got left behind after COVID are going to be even further left behind without the access to technology.

Limited digital technology access in today's world will lead to social isolation. Teachers and students will be out of the loop that don't have access. The chances of finding a job will be reduced. According to the article Digital divide throughout the world and why it causes inequality, the author states "the digital divide negatively affects women more than men, which violates the principles of gender equality." I really don't know what I would do without technology. All my school work, my saved assignments, everything is online. It is how I communicate with friends and family. I am glad this class brought to my attention how important digital equity is.

Websites:

file:///Users/juliedebilzan/Downloads/Pazurek-Digital-Divide-2015.pdf

[mmatkf]

The Promise of Digital Equity Through Device...

There are plenty of reasons for the public, corporate, and nonprofit sectors to double down on their efforts to expand digital equity. #digitalequity #digitalaccess #techaccess

The Promise of Digital Equity Through Device...

Every aspect of our day-to-day – health, education, work – increasingly turns virtual and, increasingly, the need to be connected and staying online becomes the quintessential need.

Korn Ferry Connect

[talentconsulting]

The Promise of Digital Equity Through Device...

"While high-speed internet and digital devices provide the infrastructure for digital opportunity, digital skills training can not be left out of the equation: the usefulness of a digital device is as good as the user’s skills." #digitalequity #digitalaccess #techaccess

The Promise of Digital Equity Through Device...

Every aspect of our day-to-day – health, education, work – increasingly turns virtual and, increasingly, the need to be connected and staying online becomes the quintessential need.

Korn Ferry Connect

[solutionlab]

Accessible Website Design - Designing for Web Accessibility and Usability

https://youtu.be/-5M7iRGJuzE

Accessible Website Design - Designing for Web Accessibility and Usability

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[pluginforest]

Enhance Your Audio with Precision: Bettermaker EQ232D (WINDOWS)

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Key Features:

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Intuitive User Interface: The EQ232D's user-friendly interface is designed for effortless navigation and control. Its intuitive layout provides quick access to its two parametric EQ channels, enabling you to fine-tune frequencies, gain, and Q settings with ease.

Presets and Recall: Save and recall your favorite settings effortlessly with the EQ232D's preset management system. This feature ensures consistency in your projects and streamlines your workflow.

High-Quality Filters: The plugin incorporates high-quality filters with a wide range of slope options, allowing you to sculpt your audio with precision. Tackle any EQ task, from gentle tonal adjustments to surgical corrections.

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Tag: #AudioProcessing #DigitalEqualization #BettermakerEQ #WindowsPlugin

Experience the sonic superiority of the Bettermaker EQ232D (WINDOWS) and unlock a world of possibilities in audio production. From transparent corrective EQ to creative sound sculpting, this plugin empowers you to achieve the results you desire. Elevate your music, podcasts, film scores, and more with the precision and character that Bettermaker is renowned for. Download the Bettermaker EQ232D for Windows today and take control of your audio with confidence.

[gemmayim]

Interested in exploring digital equality on Bumble in my research?

Anyone who has amazing/ interesting/ crazy/ horrendous online dating experience in London? 

I am doing research on intersectionality in the dating apps Bumble to generate insights for promoting digital equality and creating safer online dating experience for women. I am looking for female participants, who are currently living in London, to share their views and experience on using Bumble.

If you are open to sharing your dating experience and are interested in trying Bumble with me, PM me or get more info on https://gemmayim.com/bumble and drop me a message there!

[ci3342naim]

Digital Divide & Digital Equity Post #4:

As we shift more into the digital sphere, inequalities in both the real world and digital world are becoming increasingly apparent. With the COVID-19 crisis escalating and lifestyles changing to promote remote work and learning, we see how many low income individuals are disadvantaged because they are on a different playing field than their counterparts.

Digital equity and digital divide are interconnected concepts that explain the digital world and our access and participation in it. The National Digital Inclusion Alliance (2016) defines digital equity as, “individuals and communities having the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy, and economy.” Equal access to technology as well as the knowledge needed to navigate them is essential in digital participation which is equally important to personal achievement and success. When there is not equal access, there is a divide. Pazurek & Feyissa (2015) describe the digital divide as, “the disparity that exists among individuals and communities around the world with varying degrees of access to digitally mediated information and communication technologies (ICTs) and ability to benefit from digital resources” (p. 3). This divide puts many at risk in different aspects of life such as work and school.

These concepts are related and important to discuss in trying times like these, because this inequality is exacerbated by others. While inequalities do affect individuals differently, there are collective experiences shared by communities. Many households who do not have access to technological devices are paying the price by not having access to the news, school work, and the internet in general. A study done by the Pew Research Center last year found that 82 percent of white Americans reported owning a desktop or laptop computer, compared with 58 percent of African Americans and 57 percent of Hispanics (Perrin & Turner, 2019). Many of the inequalities people face in life can also  translate to the inequalities they face digitally. Many people affected by this digital divide are done so because of the socioeconomic status and their race.

Because this divide exists and affects people disproportionately, people are experiencing many disadvantages especially because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many students that come from households that don’t have ICTs or internet access are falling behind in school or can’t participate at all. Abdalla (2020) reports that Jordan Shapiro, author of The New Childhood: Raising Kids to Thrive in a Connected World, says, “It's an epistemological divide where if you didn't have a device pre-pandemic and you still don't have one or just got one, you have not learned how to think in that way, you are at a total disadvantage in terms of not just your access to [applications], but your ability to participate well in the activity.” All in all, the digital divide affects the ability of many people in how they access and participate in the digital world. 

[doseofmz]

Unpopular opinion: The Digital Divide

https://nces.ed.gov/pubs2017/2017098/index.aspThink about all the ways that you are connected to the outside world right now. What about all the knowledge that you have about using the internet safely and strategically?  Unfortunately, those sorts of technology access and knowledge aren’t available to everyone globally in an equal way. The digital divide and digital equity issues are common to educators around the world and in the U.S. because of the extensive development in technology and information available today. Children use some sort of technology in the classrooms and some even bring school-owned tablets home during the academic year. The studies that I am going to introduce today are those mainly from academic settings regarding the digital divide. 

What is the digital divide? 

Think of a gap between two separate groups: one group having access and knowledgeable resources and strategies about technological uses, and the other group having little to none at all. The digital divide, according to Stanford.edu, is that enlarging gap between minoritized people across the nation (and globe) that don’t have access to such tools and knowledge, compared to those that do have access. Often times, the underprivileged group(s) are racial minorities, rural constituents, low income, disabled, and other minoritized groups, while those who do have access to computers and the internet are wealthy, urban/suburban constituents, middle class, and middle-aged/young (Stanford Computer Science, https://cs.stanford.edu/people/eroberts/cs181/projects/digital-divide/start.html ). 

However, the digital divide doesn’t stop at computers and the internet. It’s also about benefiting from and having access to information and communication technologies, broadband infrastructure, and the chance to participate meaningfully in all areas of society (Pazurek & Feyissa, 2015).  Essentially, this divide has highlighted critical inequities regarding those that do not have these opportunities, and how they may suffer  economic and educational repercussions. Pazurek and Feyissa also highlight the more developed term of the digital divide as more than just the physical tools one may or may not have: “More importantly, the definition has been expanded to include access to digitally mediated knowledge and the resulting skills and competencies essential for personal, professional, and economic success in life” (Pazurek & Feyissa, 2015). In other words, the digital divide definition is much more far-reaching than it used to be. 

Furthermore, it is important to remember that economic and educational aspects in life are just two of the contributing factors to success in an individual and in families. Radovanovic, 2011, described the marginalized groups as people who “at some point will not be able to engage in social, economic, and political life” (Radovanovic, 2011). This is due to the lack of access of the internet, indicating the repercussions of not having that connection, which leads to a lack of skills necessary to participate in the wider social world. 

Problems 

In a 2015 study from the National Center for Education Statistics(NCES), the three main reasons that children did not have access to home internet was: it was too pricey, the families were not interested, and there was a lack of the tools to even use the internet, like a computer (https://nces.ed.gov/blogs/nces/post/the-digital-divide-differences-in-home-internet-access). Additionally, the percentage for students without internet access in rural locations varied by race and ethnicity, with Black students at 41% and Hispanic students at 26%, followed by White students at 13% and Asian students at 11%. These are just some of the statistics for 5-17 year old students in grade school. 

Similar findings can be found among other scholarly articles and research-based work by educators and researchers. Consecutive studies have proved that “low income individuals often rely on a range of computing technologies that are broken, borrowed, or dependably unstable, cycling through routine disconnection” (Gonzales, Calarco, & Lynch, 2018). These findings are not surprising, as I have experienced and learned of others like myself that have dealt with these difficulties when a laptop has gone down on us. Keeping up with school work and participating in the social cultures we are part of became a challenge. One of my professors shared the same feelings as she has had students go to her office hours so that they can use her technology tools to do their work also. Students and adults that struggle with maintaining such tools and getting access to high quality tools don’t have the capacity to keep up with the social, economic, and political aspects of life that they should be able to. Access and opportunity to growth such as these are a necessity. 

More information on the NCES study can be found here: https://nces.ed.gov/pubs2017/2017098/index.asp

[beingnell-blog]

Exploring The Digital Divide

The digital divide the gap between people who have computers and technology and people who do not have access to computers or technology. According to Margret Rouse, the digital divide is real to her and she describes it as, “Digital divide is a term that refers to the gap between demographics and regions that have access to modern information and communications technology, and those that don't or have restricted access” (Rouse). In the article Digital Divide the authors write that, “The digital divide generally describes the disparity that exists among individuals and communities around the world with varying degrees of access to digitally mediated information and communication technologies (ICTs) and ability to benefit from digital resources”(Pazurek & Feyissa, 2015). Each of these definitions describe the gap between digital access the on difference is the size of the gap between the communities and individuals.

Digital equity is when everyone has equal access and functions of the internet to achieve tasks they need to do. A National Consideration of Digital Equity defines digital equity as, “equal access and opportunity to digital tools, resources, and services to increase digital knowledge, awareness, and skills” (Davis, Fuller, Jackson, Pittman, & Sweet, 2007). Angela Siefer believes that digital equity provides internet access for all citizens no matter the community to be able to thoroughly participate in society, democracy, and economy. (The National Digital Inclusion Alliance, 2016). In my opinion, both definitions emphasize equality of digital inclusion between all sociodemographics. 

Some issues related to these two terms could be financial situations, in events where less fortunate children will attend schools that have computers and high quality internet. But, once they leave and go home they may not have the devices to participate in online activity or strong enough internet connection to work efficiently. Also, some private schools provide their students with free iPads and public schools do not require or provide devices like this. This is important to the world because there is an obvious inequality with the digital distribution between communities and acknowledging the problem will be the only way that those who are in power will be able to help solve these inequalities. If there was limited access to digital technology, there would be a huge disruption in communication, entertainment, and media revenue. For example, people use the internet for daily tasks such as working, talking to loved ones, and for television. If I didn’t have digital access this would be a disadvantage because I would have no way to connect with my peers, watch movies or television shows, do my school work, nor would I have this infinite amount of access to all the information offered by technology.

Work Cited

Davis, et al. “A National Consideration of Digital Equity.” International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), International Society for Technology in Education. 480 Charnelton Street, Eugene, OR 97401-2626. Tel: 800-336-5191; Tel: 541-302-3777; Fax: 541-302-3778; e-Mail: Iste@Iste.org; Web Site: Http://Www.iste.org, 31 May 2007, https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED497214.

Pazurek, Angelica, and Solen Feyissa. “The SAGE Encyclopedia of Educational Technology.” SAGE Knowledge, 17 June 2015, https://sk.sagepub.com/reference/the-sage-encyclopedia-of-educational-technology.

Rouse, Margaret, and Margaret Rouse. “What Is Digital Divide? - Definition from WhatIs.com.” WhatIs.com, https://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/digital-divide.

Siefer, Angela. “What Do We Mean When We Say 'Digital Equity' and 'Digital Inclusion'?” Benton Foundation, 30 Oct. 2015, https://www.benton.org/blog/what-do-we-mean-when-we-say-digital-equity-and-digital-inclusion.

Interested In More? Check Out These Links!

https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2019/11/20/mobile-divides-in-emerging-economies/

https://www.npr.org/2019/12/03/783002964/installing-free-wi-fi-to-help-count-rural-communities-of-color-in-2020-census?utm_medium=RSS&utm_campaign=news&utm_source=sendgrid&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletters&mc_cid=699a93cc78&mc_eid=ede2289852

[ksapletal-blog]

Digital Divide and Digital Equity

Most people have no idea what digital divide and digital equity even is. At least I did not know what they were until now, so I will start be defining them to give a better understanding! Digital divide refers to the division or gap between two different societies-- underprivileged individuals who do not have excessive access to computers/the internet and the upper-middle class whom do have access to computers and/or the internet. Digital divide is an interesting concept, many individuals do not necessarily know that it is a thing; but this concept is very important. In my words, digital divide is the line drawn between the lower class and the upper class, in terms of technology opportunities. The gap is clear and is important to understand what the costs of this divide could be. With our technology world advancing each and every day, this gap continues to expand. The upperclass is continuing to grow with the expanding technology world but the lower-class continues to fall behind as it expands. There are many different factors that can contribute to digital divide, those being income, education, race, and class. 

Digital equity refers to the equal access or the opportunity to all things digital-- the tools, resources, services that contribute to an individual’s digital skills and their digital knowledge (2007). I think that this is an important concept and I would describe digital equity as equal access to technology to advance our digital skills. This term is important because our society is constantly growing in the technology industry, so having equal access to advance our digital skills is very important. Digital divide and digital equity are separate terms but are important for one another. When there is a lack of digital equity in underprivileged areas, then the digital divide is seen. As a society, we need to push through digital divide to be able to achieve full digital equity (Schwieger, 2014). I think that this statement is very important, we need to focus on the digital divide of our society to ensure that we can accomplish digital equity. Digital divide refers to access to technology but also access to information, important connections, relationships, the economy and to our societies. With that being said, the digital divide is important to understand when finding a solution for digital equity. 

Both of these terms are very important to comprehend. As someone that did not know much about these terms, I think that being educated on them is important because if we aren’t then how will the problems get solved? The problems will not be able to be solved without help and lots of effort to ensure that the digital divide is minimized to obtain digital equity in all societies. Solutions to digital divide are very important and mobile networks are not going to be able to solely make the issue go away (2019).

There are many issues that could arise with the digital divide and our society lacking digital equity. All people should be able to have access to the internet and technology, but this is just not the case. Without having access to the internet, individuals are unable to participate in our society, their own community, in democracy, in the economy, make connections or just for fun-- which is a major problem in our world today (Lorenzsonn, 2017). Our society today and not having access to the internet, limits all the abilities listed above. People are unable to do many things, since our society relies on technology and the internet immensely. The internet is a major source to turn to when looking for a job or even making connections to get a job offer. The people on the wrong side of the digital divide are already having education and financial issues but with limited access to the internet, they are at an even higher disadvantage. I think that it is important to focus on the issues associated with the digital divide and come to a solution to bring about digital equity. Everyone should have a fair advantage when it comes to internet and technology access. 

Sources:

Davis, T, et al. “A National Consideration of Digital Equity.” International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), International Society for Technology in Education. 480 Charnelton Street, Eugene, OR 97401-2626. Tel: 800-336-5191; Tel: 541-302-3777; Fax: 541-302-3778; e-Mail: Iste@Iste.org; Web Site: Http://Www.iste.org, 31 May 2007, eric.ed.gov/?id=ED497214.

“Digital Divide.” The Digital Divide, cs.stanford.edu/people/eroberts/cs181/projects/digital-divide/start.html.

Grush, Bern, et al. “From Digital Divide to Digital Equity.” Meeting of the Minds, 18 Mar. 2014, meetingoftheminds.org/digital-divide-digital-equity-10520.

Hawthorne, Ryan, and Lukasz Grzybowski. “Mobile Access Won't Fix the Digital Divide. Fixed-Line Is Needed Too.” The Conversation, 19 Nov. 2019, theconversation.com/mobile-access-wont-fix-the-digital-divide-fixed-line-is-needed-too-126801.

Holland, Beth, et al. “Strategies for Tackling Digital Equity.” Getting Smart, 18 Apr. 2019, www.gettingsmart.com/2019/04/strategies-for-tackling-digital-equity/.

Lorenzsonn, E. “Q&A: DANEnet's Alyssa Kenney Sees Internet Access as a Social Justice Issue.” Madison.com, 11 June 2017, madison.com/ct/business/technology/q-a-danenet-s-alyssa-kenney-sees-internet-access-as/article_21d6c091-2736-55ac-b583-f7580e6c7af1.html.