The Digital Divide

1. What is the digital divide? How can mobile computing be used to solve some of the problems of the digital divide?


I think this is a great question. For one the digital divide is defined as the gap between those who have substantial access to digital and information technology and those that do not. The divide includes limited physical access to computing devices and imbalances in training or skills that further enable the digital divide. The digital divide exists in some form throughout the world and can be classified along age, income, race among other factors. This is a real problem for those that have very limited access to digital resources and skills. Ways that have been used to alleviate this problem are putting computers in public libraries, computer loan programs, One laptop per child (OLPC) program, computer training and other similar types of outreach to historically disadvantaged populations.

For example, imagine someone with no digital access going to shop for a used car. They have no detailed way to get timely comprehensive information about what cars are available at their preferred dealership and compare to the competition. Also, the same goes for their financing options. What about the user reviews and car history reports we have become accustomed to consulting? What is their trade worth? All those resources are more difficult, time-consuming, or out-of-reach for someone without good IT resources. This digital divide puts them at a real disadvantage if they are needing this car. Likely they will go to the most convenient dealership and have only the limited choices on the lot. Not knowing the going price for the type of vehicle they are interested in puts the buyer on the defense and there is a greater chance that they will overpay for a unsatisfactory model that was financed at a greater cost because of the limited knowledge and options.

However, the mobile computing movement largely through wireless phone companies have helped to incrementally bridge the gap. I have seen people that would not touch a computer quickly send a text or email a picture via the increasingly more powerful wireless phone. As new models of smart phones continue to take the place of feature phones (dumb phones), the digital divide can be largely overcome. First, most people take phone access for granted. As wireless phones become ubiquitous and inexpensive an entry level model is usually offered free with a contract and serves as a gateway to a wireless connection, than a desire for better features, next comes a keyboard, and and finally a data plan. As these phones become inexpensive mini-computers with many of the features of a full desktop the digital divide can become a relic of the past. Additionally, there is no need to have expensive wired infrastructure investments in developing countries since wireless is now the future global standard and that is where the investments are being made.