Most of our focus thus far has been on the availability of general Internet use and access. Although this is the main concern, the world moves at a fast pace and basic Internet access may no longer be enough. The need for broadband Internet access vs. basic dial-up is increasing as our World continues to become more dependent on second to second communication.
A December 31, 2008 telecommunications article in BusinessWeek addresses this growing concern and notes President Barrack Obama's acknowledgement of this as one of the many problems facing our country. From the beginning, author Arik Hesseldahl provides strong evidence for the need for high speed Internet access. He cites the specific situation of a small time business owner in a low-income Harlem neighborhood and the many benefits he has reaped as a direct result of having a broadband connection. Furthermore, Hesseldahl examines the consequences of not having Internet access, specifically broadband. He explores the many barriers this creates in regards to retrieving up-to-date news, streaming live video, and general communication.
This article touches on most of the points brought up on the 2/3/09 discussion about technological inequalities. The digital divide and basic Internet access seemed to be a bottomless pit but with the need for high speed Internet access increasing, solutions seem almost nonexistent.
Hesseldahl also explores the participation of technological service conglomerate AT&T and the several nonprofit organizations that are trying to close the digital divide between the urban poor and high speed Internet access. Unlike rural areas, broadband access is likely available in urban areas but affordability then becomes the problem. AT&T and these organizations are trying to provide the necessary funds (and unprecedented low rates) to provide this access, but the inequality of not owning a home computer still remains.
Home access to high speed Internet is vital. Whether its communicating with distant family members or reading a "how to file your taxes" article, computer access is very important. Owning a home computer is convenient and almost necessary. Thousands of low-income families are still without computers, further contributing to the digital divide.
I think that this article does a particularly good job of exploring the digital divide through Internet access and personal computer access by providing several examples of how technological inequalities specifically affect the everyday lives of Americans. Home access to the Internet can help with job searches, health information (that might be very private), how-to websites, up to date news, networking, and educational opportunities. It is also very interesting that Hesseldahl chose to include the political implications of the Digital Divide by noting Obama's acknowledgement of the issue and tentative solutions.
Although I think this article is very effective, I question the urgency to provide complete Internet access for everyone. I think that providing more opportunities and affordable access is a more feasible and a more reasonable solution.
If you want to check out the article for yourself and comment on my response it can be found here:
http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/dec2008/tc20081230_015542.htm
Video Reflection
14 years ago
I agree with what you are saying here. I took Journalism 201 last semester, which was all about mass communication. We discussed the need for up to date information and how people are at a disadvantage if they are not in the information loop. The issue that not everyone has high speed internet, or internet at all, is a major problem with our society. I feel out of the loop not checking my email every 5 minutes. We need to work on getting internet to everyone. I do believe that this should be an urgent matter for the president. With the pace that technology is moving nowadays, the people who are not up to date now will have a harder time catching up in the future. We need to solve the inequity now before it becomes a more pressing issue.
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