The Digital Divide and Importance of Digital Literacy: A Modern Metric of Opportunity
The digital divide is defined as a gap in access to and use of the internet and other information technologies between different population groups. It is globally and locally one of the biggest issues in equity across communities today. More than $85 billion invested nationally in broadband expansion over the past 13 years, however we still lack universal broadband adoption, which leaves populations without the digital tools needed to thrive today.
One of the key distinctions researchers highlight is availability vs adoption. Broadband is technically available in many neighborhoods, but not all residents can afford it, know how to use it, or will adopt it. Half of households without broadband forgo service because of cost, and others lack digital literacy, devices, or awareness of opportunities broadband provides.
Digital Literacy as a Social Determinant of Health
Digital literacy contributes to the adoption of broadband and unlocks opportunities. It is considered a social determinant of health and is defined by the American Library Association as “the ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills.” Adding digital tools to a community does not necessarily mean a community will see the opportunity, without digital literacy training. Real life examples of the importance of digital access are telehealth, the ability to apply for benefits, complete job applications, and participate in online learning.
Stable housing, education, and access to food shape health outcomes, as does the ability to participate in the digital world. Digital skills are absolutely imperative for residents to connect with doctors, manage prescriptions, or engage in preventive health programs. Closing the digital divide is therefore directly tied to advancing health equity in Dallas communities.
Bridging the Divide with Policy
Policy makers at each level of government are shifting from building broadband infrastructure to addressing barriers to adoption. Barriers include affordability and digital literacy. Below is a brief guide to some of the policies created to facilitate digital adoption.
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) $65 billion allocation for broadband expansion, including $2.75 billion for the Digital Equity Act, supporting digital literacy training for low-income populations.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) subsidies to help households afford broadband service.
Community-based efforts, like Digital Navigators, which partners with libraries, nonprofits, and workforce agencies to teach both basic and advanced digital skills.
These policies provide a roadmap and are partnerships between libraries, workforce, and schools to build community-based digital literacy programs. Broadband ensuries residents have the tools, skills, and confidence to take advantage of the benefits of digital tools from health to jobs.
How We’re Closing the Gap
We know that inequity in digital access is a global issue, but we’re committed to bringing equity to the digital space in our communities. DCH’s Connected Communities Initiative ensures that our communities have the resources, spaces, and support systems they need to flourish. The first step we’re taking to close the gap is by building a computer lab in our community center at Hillburn Hills to provide access to technology and digital literacy training. Our residents will be able to have improved access to education, employment, and telehealth resources.
