Digital Access Digital exclusion of any kind minimizes the growth of human beings in an electronic society. Many factors contribute to the digital divide, including economic, social, and even personal reasons. How do technology leaders ensure that everyone has equal access to technology regardless of gender, race, age, ethnicity, and physical or mental challenges? Technology leaders must be aware of and support electronic access for everyone to create a foundation for digital citizenship. Providing the resources to allow everyone to participate in a digital society is necessary. Both elementary and secondary students need to have access to upto- date computers, software, digital cameras, and so on. Assistive technologies such as page readers for word processing, spreadsheets, and Internet use should be provided for students with special needs. School libraries are open to the public after school and on weekends, which allows for access students may not have at home. How do we provide equal access for those who cannot or choose not to use technology? Some people have the resources to allow them to participate in the digital society. Others cannot afford the technology. Still others may choose not to use the technology. Schools and society must provide access while leaving the choice to become a participating member in the digital community up to the individual. Learning & Leading with Technology Volume 32 Number 2 Copyright © ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education), 1.800.336.5191 (U.S.& Canada) or 1.541.302.3777 (Int’l), [email protected]. All rights reserved. |
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