DIGITAL INCLUSION
by MARIANNE GUMANGAN
DEFINITION
Digital inclusion refers to the
efforts to ensure that all individuals and communities, particularly those who
are disadvantaged, have access to and use of digital technologies and resources
to promote economic and social well-being. This includes access to high-speed
internet, digital devices, and digital literacy skills.
According to the National Digital
Inclusion Alliance (NDIA), digital inclusion is "the activities necessary
to ensure that all individuals and communities, including the most
disadvantaged, have access to and use of Information and Communication
Technologies (ICTs)." This definition emphasizes the importance of equity
and ensuring that all individuals and communities have equal opportunities to
access and use digital technologies.
The concept of Digital Inclusion
is a method of addressing issues related to digital literacy and access to ICT.
One definition of digital inclusion, per The Institute of Museum and Library Services, is “the
ability of individuals and groups to access and use information and
communications technologies.”
Digital inclusion is meant to be
a practical, policy-driven approach that addresses the needs of individuals and
communities as a whole. It encompasses not only access to the Internet but also
the availability of hardware, software, digital content and services, and maybe
most importantly, training for the digital literacy skills required for
effective use of information and communication technologies.
Digital inclusion is like a
blueprint for addressing and guiding the readiness of communities to fully
embrace the digital age. Being a full participant in this new technology will
enrich the lives of individuals and communities as a whole and make sure that
no one is left behind.
IMPORTANCE OF DIGITAL INCLUSION
Digital inclusion is important because it promotes social
and economic equity and helps individuals and communities participate in the
digital world. Here are some key reasons why digital inclusion is important:
- Access
to digital technologies and resources can improve education outcomes,
healthcare, job opportunities, and civic engagement.
- Digital
inclusion can help bridge the digital divide and reduce social and
economic inequalities.
- Digital
technologies and resources can increase efficiency and productivity, and
lead to cost savings and economic growth.
- Digital
inclusion is essential for promoting innovation and competitiveness in the
global economy.
- Digital
inclusion can also help strengthen democracy by increasing access to information,
promoting transparency and accountability, and encouraging civic
participation.
Digital inclusion is important to make use of the dimensions of digital technologies. This empowerment allows the users to enjoy the benefits of essential digital services and allows them to make their lives more comfortable.
Digital inclusion is the key to unlock an array of opportunities in this fast-paced ‘Information Age’. It is an unbeatable advantage for an individual to reach the pinnacle of success and enjoy a convenient life. Digital inclusion also addresses issues like safety, gender inequality, and accessibility.
DIFFERENCE OF DIGITAL EQUITY AND DIGITAL INCLUSION
According to the National Digital Inclusion
Alliance, there is a difference between Digital Equity and Digital
Inclusion:
“Digital Equity is
a condition in which all individuals and communities have the information
technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy and
economy. Digital Equity is necessary for civic and cultural
participation, employment, lifelong learning, and access to essential services.
Digital Inclusion
refers to the activities necessary to ensure that all individuals and
communities, including the most disadvantaged, have access to and use of
Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). This includes 5
elements: 1) affordable, robust broadband internet service; 2) internet-enabled
devices that meet the needs of the user; 3) access to digital literacy
training; 4) quality technical support; and 5) applications and online content
designed to enable and encourage self-sufficiency, participation and
collaboration. Digital Inclusion must evolve as technology advances. Digital
Inclusion requires intentional strategies and investments to reduce and
eliminate historical, institutional and structural barriers to access and use
technology.”
BARRIERS OF DIGITAL INCLUSION
Research for the UK digital
strategy suggests that there are a number of important barriers, and more than
one may affect individuals at any one time.
They are:
- Access - not everyone has the ability to connect to the internet and go online
- Skills - not everyone has the ability to use the internet and online services
- Confidence - some people fear online crime, lack trust or don’t know where to start online
- Motivation - not everyone sees why using the internet could be relevant and helpful
- Design - not all digital services and products are accessible and easy to use
- Awareness - not everyone is aware of digital services and products available to them
- Staff capability and capacity - not all health and care staff have the skills and knowledge to recommend digital services and products to patients and service users
In other studies, the barriers can be broken down into three
broad categories:
- access
and accessibility
- skills
and confidence
- motivation
and trust
The barriers can be broken down into three broad categories:
- access
and accessibility
- skills
and confidence
- motivation
and trust
Access and Accessibility
Access to internet connectivity and digital devices is a
vital component of becoming digitally included. This could be through:
- a
home computer and wifi
- a
phone or tablet with a data connection
- publicly
accessible wifi
- a
library computer
Devices can be expensive, and people who lack in skills or
motivation may be reluctant to spend money on one, especially in cases of
deprivation. Other solutions include:
- public
access computers
- free
wifi
- device
lending schemes
- refurbished
donated devices
No universal solution
These are not universal solutions however. Public wifi
requires a device. Library computers are a great option for many, but are only
accessible at certain times, are not accessible for many and don’t solve the
problem of not being online at home. Tablet lending schemes can help, but are
not permanent solutions, and donated devices are in high demand.
Even if a device and connectivity can be found for someone,
are the tools and resources accessible? What support is in place if the person
has:
- a
physical or sensory impairment
- English
as a second language
- a
learning disability and needs to adapt the device for their specific needs
Skills and Confidence
A lack of digital skills or lack of confidence to safely
access the internet can hold many people back. Online skills training is
available, but it requires a certain level of skill and motivation to access
the courses, on top of the device and connectivity barrier mentioned above.
Face to face skills training has been more difficult during
the pandemic but is still
possible with adaptations. In either case, people may need sustained
support on an ongoing basis to develop the skills and confidence they need.
It is suggested that you encourage organisations to embed
digital into other activities. In this way, people can increase their digital
skills and confidence as they take part in sessions they enjoy. This also helps
with the barrier of motivation.
Motivation and Trust
Motivation and trust can be one of the hardest barriers to
overcome. It directly affects how likely people are to invest time or money in
overcoming the other two barriers. A lack of perceived need is the leading
reason for not having a home internet connection.
There are many reasons why someone may not feel motivated to
try digital:
- the
belief that it is unnecessary
- belief
that they cannot do it or it is too difficult
- a
lack of interest
- a
lack of time and resources
HOW TO OVERCOME BARRIERS OF DIGITAL INCLUSION
- Increase access to affordable high-speed internet in rural or underserved areas through government subsidies, public-private partnerships, or community networks.
- Provide digital devices to underserved populations, particularly low-income households and students, through device donation programs, refurbishing programs, or government subsidies.
- Offer digital skills training and education programs to enhance digital literacy, including basic digital skills such as internet use, online safety, and digital content creation.
- Address affordability issues through government subsidies, discount programs, or community-based solutions.
- Develop and provide locally relevant and culturally appropriate digital content and services, particularly for underserved populations and individuals who do not speak the dominant language of the digital environment.
- Raise awareness of the benefits of digital technologies and resources through targeted outreach and education campaigns.
- Ensure that digital technologies and resources are accessible to individuals with disabilities or other accessibility challenges through inclusive design practices and assistive technology solutions.
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