The document discusses the digital divide, which is defined by the OECD as the gap between individuals and areas in accessing and using information and communication technologies (ICTs) and the internet. It presents perspectives that the digital divide prevents equal access to education due to a lack of technology. Rural and low-income areas often lack sufficient internet access, limiting educational opportunities. Closing the digital divide requires efforts like increasing broadband access for low-income communities and providing training to help people navigate computers and the internet.

1. What is the Digital Divide ?

3. OECD explains the Digital Divide as : “ the gap between individuals, households, businesses and geographic areas at different socio-economic levels with regard to both their opportunities to access information and communication technologies (ICTs) and to their use of the Internet for a wide variety of activities” The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) The have’s and the Have not’s

4. “ The digital divide prevents people from getting an education because they don't have access to the right technology” Judy Block (2010)

5. We have shifted from industry as our mainstay to information. As our society progresses a computer is now needed just to compete. And many rural areas across North America still lack sufficient access to the internet and therefor are limited in what type of education they can receive

6. “ It is important to remember that access is still a barrier for many distance learners. This is effectively shutting them out of the opportunity to connect with the rest of the world, engage and participate as a lifelong student.”. Broadbandmap.gov

8. Libraries may provide a major role in the narrowing of the Digital Divide. “ Libraries have a key role in assisting in closing the "digital divide." Public libraries have helped close the digital divide by bringing free Internet and computer access to the common person--particularly those who lack access at home or work”. Judy Block (2010)

9. Technology alone will not narrow the gap of the digital divide. The fastest computers or the fastest Internet access available will not do the job alone but it will provide the basic tools needed for society to do the rest.