Digital Divide Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Digital Divide - Research Paper Example The present research has identified that digital divide is the gap between individuals that already have access to Internet (information and communication technology) as well as have the skills and knowledge of making use of the technologies - and those that have neither access nor skills of using those same technologies within a society, community or a geographic area. With the Internet quickly becoming a fundamental medium of information processing and communication, permeating every domain of the society and economy, there is need to develop policies that bridge the gap. Most of the research shows that the issue of the digital divide is more than just access issue, and it cannot be palliated merely by providing the essential equipment. There are three factors that are playing; these are information accessibility, utilization, and receptiveness. More than access to the Internet, people need to have knowledge of how to make use of information and communication technologies once they are made available within a society. In bringing the gap, information professionals can provide reference and information services that assist people in learning and utilizing the technologies that they have access to, regardless of the economic status of those people seeking assistance. There is a need for the education sector to focus on providing a learning environment, which promotes experimentation and exploration of ICT. This is because it is clear that individuals may have access to the Internet but lack the skills required for accessing it. For an instant, in a class of Digital Divide, students may learn a lot about the issues of access to Internet and equity but still may fail to grasp what is possibly the most important aspect: an imperative of becoming involved.