Throughout this project, I have explored the digital divide within the American Education system from a variety of angles. First looking at issues of the digital divide in a larger sense, I explored the factors such as the economy, race, income, and education through a variety of sources. Thus, we learned that low-income households, the majority of which are black or hispanic, are largely unable to afford the minimum price for "standard" Internet connect, let alone a computer. These kids, most of whom have one parent working multiple jobs, end up at high-poverty schools that, similarly, cannot afford to introduce technology into the classroom. Thus, they begin to fall behind, not only in their knowledge of technology and how to use it, but also in the amount of opportunities they will have access to down the road. As we have observed, technology is becoming increasingly ingrained in our society and will only continue to further influence and dictate the future, as well as the future of our children. As Secretary of state, Arne Duncan, asserted, this lack of access to computers and the Internet in students' education is creating an achievement gap. Thus, the gap continues to widen, introducing all sorts of limitations and challenges for disadvantaged kids. During phase 2, I tried to focus my research more on the "proven" benefits of using technology in the classroom and different methods of doing so in high-poverty schools. Without funding, however, it is extremely difficult for these schools to obtain enough technology, computers for instance, to implement basic and effective learning methods such as flipping the classroom. Technology does enhance students' experiences in the classroom as they are able to develop their writing skills, collaborate with classmates and teachers, learn about the different resources and tools technology and the Internet provides, and, most importantly, get hands on experience with digital tools that have the potential to provide a multitude of opportunities. It is evident that the digital divide in American education is still present and an ongoing challenge – So, what needs to happen next in order to begin bridging the digital divide in American education? While it is an extremely complicated issued, connected to issues of race, income, and demographics, we see that there is no simple answer. There are a few factors, however, that would help to narrow the gap. Universal Access is an important concept when considering ways in which to mend the gap. As the use of the Internet and computers continues to increase, so will the necessity for basic access. In the public sector, it is crucial that community members and policy makers realize the importance of the endless resources the Internet provides and make a concerted effort to make access more affordable. The government needs to subsidize the cost of Internet access for low-income households. Additionally, the private sector needs to provide an equal level of service and networks to rural and low-income communities to include a wider range of participants. There also needs to be an increased amount of Community Access Centers, as well as the continued support of pre-existing ones. These centers are an essential resource for those who cannot afford their own computers, let alone Internet, at school or at work. These programs need funding to expand their projects geared towards low-income families and students in high-poverty schools. Another crucial factor in bridging the digital divide is an increased amount of well-trained staff that are able to understand and teach their students how computers and their programs work. Once trained, they will be able to use classroom technologies in a resourceful way. Lastly, it is important that we strive to change the public attitude regarding technology. The majority of the public considers technology as a luxury rather than a necessity. In our "digital age," however, people need to recognize how deeply ingrained technology in our society truly is, and all the ways in which it influences the world we live in. Once we realize the power of technology, it is crucial that we think of them as tool to the future and the future of our youth.
