Reading: Accessing the machine

Note: Collegial Reviews due Nov 15

We explore efforts by organizations and governments to increase access to internet communication for disadvantaged and under-represented groups - in short, we explore attempts to close the digital divide. Initially, we analyze differing historical experiences of women and men on the internet. We then explore the racial and economic dimensions of the digital divide. Afterward, we examine efforts to close the divide through public-private efforts in U.S. schools. Following this discussion, we analyze critiques of the digital divide thesis, focusing on claims that advocates for federal involvement in the wiring of schools and communities overstate concerns about racial divisions online while ignoring regional divisions in high speed internet access. We conclude with a discussion about the global divide between information "haves" and "have nots."

Off-campus webpages

Falling Through the Net: Defining the Digital Divide - "Information tools, such as the personal computer and the Internet, are increasingly critical to economic success and personal advancement. Falling Through the Net: Defining the Digital Divide finds that more Americans than ever have access to telephones, computers, and the Internet. At the same time, however, NTIA has found that there is still a significant 'digital divide' separating American information 'haves' and 'have nots.' Indeed, in many instances, the digital divide has widened in the last year."

Globalization with a Human Face - "Characterized by 'shrinking space, shrinking time and disappearing borders', globalization has swung open the door to opportunities. Breakthroughs in communications technologies and biotechnology, if directed for the needs of people, can bring advances for all of humankind. But markets can go too far and squeeze the non-market activities so vital for human development."

President Clinton's Remarks on Bridging the Digital Divide - "I just ask you all to think about this one thing: What do you believe the economic impact would be if Internet access and usage were as dense in America as telephone access and usage. I think it's clear that we need to keep working until we achieve this goal."

The State New Economy Index - "The purpose of this report is not to crown "winners" or stigmatize "losers." Rather, our intent is to highlight differences among the structural foundations of state economies and to focus attention on a progressive policy framework to promote economic development in the New Economy."

Note: These pages exist outside of San Jose State University servers and their content is not endorsed by the page maintainer or any other university entity. These pages have been selected because they may provide some guidance or insight into the issues discussed in class. Because one can never step into the same electronic river twice, the pages may or may not be available when you request them. If you have any questions or suggestions, please email Dr. Andrew Wood.