What is Digital Divide?
Digital divide refers to people's unequal access to digital technology, such as smartphones and the internet. The people without access to such technology are at a major disadvantage, wherein they are falling behind modern society. In this day and age, access to digital technology is a must. Digital technology allows us to easily find and share information and resources; without it, we will suffer from the lack of accessing said information and resources.
Digital divide's impact today
Around the world, there are still many people who suffer from digital divide. People in underdeveloped countries like many in Africa, people with financial issues, and people who are not equipped with the skills to utilize technology, all suffer from digital divide. Lack of access to digital technology hinders a person's capabilities and opportunities. Access to the internet is a must nowadays, and being unable to access it will severely impact a person's education, communication, financial state, and many other necessary parts of a person's life.
How can we solve digital divide?
Digital divide is a problem that stems from issues with finances. Not everyone can afford a smartphone, let alone even have access to the internet. Even with access to digital technology, some still lack the required knowledge to properly use it.
One simple way to alleviate the financial burden of digital technology is to make said technology more affordable. Cheaper yet less powerful devices like older versions of smartphones will usually suffice for a person's daily needs. Even then, internet access is not always available. Affordable versions of current ways to access internet is also needed. Cheaper yet slower internet will suffice for common needs. Lastly, for the issue regarding digital literacy, at the very least, we can educate one another about digital technology. Most things you could need can be found with a simple google search, so if a person can learn how to use Google, then they can, with a few difficulties, learn how to navigate the internet.