Unit 2 Reflection

Edit: I just noticed that I messed up the URL for my submission on Canvas. I just updated it, so it should be fine now!

As we learned from the discussions of this unit, the digital divide has been a topic of concern for years. Still, despite countless initiatives, it remains a significant issue in the United States. This gap persists, not only in access to technology but also in the knowledge and skills required to use it. After this unit’s exploration of remedies for the divide, it’s clear that while progress has been made, we still have a long way to go.

Throughout the unit, we were presented with steps and remedies for the issue. Some of these were pieces of legislation, such as the Digital Equity Act, and others included donations of technology to those in need. All of these efforts teamed up to tackle the issue. They attempted to level the technological playing field and eliminate the digital divide. However, as we still know, the problem hasn’t disappeared. This is because, as I stated earlier, these are simply remedies. They are not cures. 

So the question now is, what is the cure?

To close the digital divide in the United States once and for all, we need to think bigger. One major shortcoming of the initial efforts is the assumption that providing hardware or technological knowledge will be enough. For many individuals from underserved or marginalized communities, simply having access to technology does not guarantee they’ll feel empowered to use it meaningfully. Also, many programs don’t consider that different populations may have distinct needs and ways of interacting with technology. For instance, while some groups may benefit from traditional coding programs, others might find value in alternative approaches, such as focusing on creative tech uses, like digital art or storytelling. Tailoring programs to meet these diverse interests is crucial for bridging the gap.

We must go beyond providing access and primary education to truly mend the digital divide. More needs to be done to create supportive environments where people from all walks of life feel included and empowered to influence and interact with the next generation of technology. This means teaching people how to use technology and getting them to use it to enhance their lives. Encouraging creativity, providing ongoing mentorship, and addressing the unique social challenges different communities face are all critical to making a lasting impact.