Digital Divide JSS3 Computer Studies Lesson Note

TOPIC: DIGITAL DIVIDE

Meaning of the digital divide 

The digital divide is the gap between those who have access to digital information and communication technologies and those who do not; or the gap between those who use digital information and communication technologies and those who do not use them.

HOW TO MEASURE DIGITAL DIVIDE

The digital divide in a population is usually measured in terms of the following 

•             The number of functional telephones in a population 
•             The number of personal computers ( PC) that are in use in a population 
•             The number of internet users in a population 

 HOW TO BRIDGE THE DIGITAL DIVIDE

•             The government should develop national infrastructure that will increase internet access among the population.
•             Local content should be encouraged in internet languages such as Yoruba, Igbo, or Hausa,
•             Government should encourage alternative access to the internet such as the use of wireless technology and devices to connect to the internet.
•             Non-government organizations (NGOs) should mobilize resources and engage in programs to bridge the digital divide.
•           The private sector should invest in information technology (IT) businesses such as internet cafes.