The Impact of Covid-19 on the Digital Divide and Hope for the Future
As a kid with parents as avid tech enthusiasts, technology was very present in my life growing. My readily ability to access the Internet and all that it has to offer has provided me with many opportunities and persisted throughout my life. Unfortunately, for many Americans this is not the case and has resulted in the digital divide. The digital divide is the figurative gulf between those who have ready access to computers and the internet, and those who do not. Before Covid-19, the digital divide caused those without connection, unable to immerse themselves in the “economic, political and social aspects of not just America, but the world”. But now in the era of Covid-19, the divide is exacerbated as many daily in -person activities have moved to virtual platforms.
For most with access to the internet being completely disconnected seems like another world. Nonetheless, the FCC estimates 21 million Americans to be without access to the internet. However, many believe this is an underestimate. Others have estimated that the accurate number is roughly 42 million — many Americans in rural areas. However, this doesn’t even include individuals with access to broadband connection but the inability to afford actual internet access or computers.
As with many issues, the pandemic has shone a bright light on this issue. The internet and media have reported an immense amount of up to date information for those to keep informed during the virus, but if individuals can’t access the internet they’re literally left in the dark. Furthermore, as many schools turned to virtual learning there was a literal race to get students computers, tablets, and portable wifi carriers before schools closed so they could participate in learning. Unfortunately, the resources of libraries, free wifi from a coffee shop and many others are no longer available. Even if students have access to the internet, if that service is unstable it can severely impact the quality of learning, their ability to participate in live learning or submit assignments and ultimately their motivation. Lastly, telehealth has been a large opportunity for those to engage in, but it leaves those without the internet again at a disadvantage.
On one hand the pandemic has brought with it an extreme focus on connecting virtually — ISPs have stepped up and provided internet access to many. Spectrum has offered free internet access to households with students and/or teachers. Comcast has also free service to those on public assistance. Other providers are halting disconnections for default payments during this time as well to make sure all can stay connected. This increase in access will hopefully result in lower costs of access as the internet becomes more of a commodity. Additionally, with the drastic decline in revenues, companies may look to gain new customers through promotions. This is a positive step, but many individuals need this to be a nationwide march to see full change.
It’s clear that internet and technology access needs to be provided and increased nationally, so that all Americans can access the internet. The internet provides access to healthcare, economics, employment opportunities, social interaction; the list can truly be limitless. Those without the internet are clearly excluded from a key part of our society. But is this responsibility to provide widespread internet access a public or private sector responsibility? As this pandemic has brought forth new solutions for the US and brought to light many underlying, plaguing societal problems I hope the digital divide is a key priority for those to solve as we move into a new era.
Sources:
https://cs.stanford.edu/people/eroberts/cs181/projects/digital-divide/start.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/17/technology/china-schools-coronavirus.html
https://www.fcc.gov/about-fcc/fcc-initiatives/bridging-digital-divide-all-americans
