Let’s Celebrate Digital Inclusion Week: October 7-11, 2024
You don’t need to be a rocket scientist - or even a computer scientist - to figure out that our world is more dependent upon the internet than ever before. Whether looking for new job opportunities, searching for a reputable auto-mechanic, or sending vacation pics to friends and family, we are constantly utilizing technology. Consequently, rather than being a mere convenience, the ability to access digital resources and skills is now a necessity for full participation in society. Digital Inclusion Week, celebrated this year from October 7-11, reminds us of the ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and foster equitable access to technology and digital literacy for all people.
What Is “Digital Inclusion”?
Digital inclusion is the effort to ensure information and communication technologies (ICTs) are accessible by all individuals and communities, including those most impacted by economic or social inequality. Such inclusion is about more than simply having access to devices and internet connections - it is also about providing all individuals the ability to learn digital skills and to feel comfortable with the meaningful use of technology.
It Makes a Difference
Digital inclusion is not just an issue that impacts often-marginalized individuals and communities, it impacts all of us. Research tells us that digital inclusion is one of the bedrocks of both social and economic empowerment for the 21st century. Here are highlights from some of that research:
Digital Skills & Employment:
92% of jobs in the U.S. require digital skills, according to a report by the National Skills Coalition. However, about one-third of workers have low or no digital skills due to historical underinvestment and structural inequities.
The gap in digital skills disproportionately affects workers of color, with 41% of Black workers and 35% of Latino workers possessing low or no digital skills.
69% of jobs that require moderate digital skills pay higher wages, and the demand for these skills has grown by four-fold in the last decade.
Workers with digital skills are nearly 40% more likely to be employed and can earn wages that are 17-27% higher than those without such skills.
Digital Access as a Super Determinant of Health:
According to SAMHSA, digital access is a “super determinant of health.” It not only directly affects health care access through tools like telemedicine and appointment scheduling, but also influences other social determinants of health such as education, employment, and connection to community.
One in five Americans has no internet access at home, which limits their ability to participate in telehealth services, mental health resources, and wellness programs.
60 million people live in areas with insufficient broadband access, making it difficult to receive healthcare services remotely and widening health disparities in regions that may already be medically underserved.
Digital connectivity can help improve mental health, reduce isolation, and provide access to peer support groups and health education.
Education:
The Economist Intelligence Unit reports that students with digital access are 24% more likely to graduate from high school and are better prepared for future job markets.
In lower-income communities, students with internet access see a 10-15% improvement in academic performance compared to their disconnected peers.
79% of educators believe that digital tools can enhance learning experiences, offering personalized education that meets individual student needs.
Bridging the digital divide in education can improve outcomes in underserved communities, where students may be twice as likely to fall behind without adequate digital tools.
Economic Impact:
The White House reports that affordable, high-speed internet access has helped small businesses generate millions of dollars in economic activity and expand their reach to new markets.
Studies show that every 10% increase in broadband access results in a 3% increase in GDP growth, demonstrating the direct economic benefits of digital inclusion.
By expanding broadband access, small businesses can grow four times faster, and rural communities in the U.S. can see 10% more jobs created through digital access.
$65 billion in federal funding has been invested in closing the digital divide, with a focus on providing affordable internet access to low-income households and boosting economic opportunities.
This Year’s Theme: Sustainability
Digital inclusion efforts in the U.S. are in the midst of a substantial funding and policy boost, thanks in part to growing recognition of digital inequality during and after the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown. This year’s theme, “Stronger Together: Mobilizing Towards Sustainability,” emphasizes the need to ensure the long-term existence of the digital equity movement beyond the life of upcoming one-time funding. The goal is the development of a healthy and hardy digital inclusion ecosystem that connects all of the many digital inclusion initiatives across our communities in order to sustain the movement towards digital inclusion solutions for years to come.
Wright to Learn: Our Commitment to Digital Inclusion
At Wright to Learn, we're passionate about making sure everyone has access to the digital world. We work closely with libraries, local governments, educators, and community organizations to create customized plans that promote digital equity and inclusive learning.
Our goals are simple:
Boost Digital Skills: We offer training and resources to help people gain the skills they need to succeed in today’s digital world.
Build Alliances: We help individuals and organizations connect with existing programs or develop new ones to tackle the challenges people face in accessing technology.
Support Inclusive Learning: We collaborate with learning providers and technology companies to help their tools and platforms work for everyone, no matter their needs.
If you would like more information on our digital inclusion efforts and how you can get involved, contact us today and let’s start the conversation.
Together, we can create a future where everyone has equal access to digital opportunities and where no one is left behind in the digital age. Join us in celebrating Digital Inclusion Week 2024 and let's work towards a more inclusive and equitable world.
