How to Bridge the Digital Divide?

The digital divide is a global problem, which several states have to face in their efforts to implement more e-governance. This article focuses on how a state can work to raise the level of the citizens' IT-skills so that citizens can become an active part of the information society. The focus is on how the digital divide is defined in accordance to a theoretical framework, present empirical data and a political perspective. In addition the existing political initiatives to bridge the digital divide in relation to the empirical findings and the theoretical definition will be assessed. This article illustrates the gap between the current public initiatives and the theoretical understanding of the digital divide.    

This case study was intended to provide insight into e-Government inclusion of those on the disadvantaged side of the digital divide. Removal of barriers that exclude individuals from participating in the digital age is a prerequisite to e-Government inclusion. The application of the assets-based community development model  1993) as a community the identification of (Kretzmann and McKnight organizing strategy enables community needs. In this case, internet access  and training in computing skills was necessary in order that actual computer use be realized. This computer experience led to government website awareness and visitation. The first visit may be encouraged by group activity devoted to a specific or compelling reason. This insight is consistent with the finding that e-Government be not only  technically accessible, but usable and engaging (Donnelly and Merrick, 2003).

Continuation of internet use within the community is challenging. Only two PCs are equipped with modems at the community centre computer lab. The 31 PCs, awarded to those who successfully completed the training program, may have lacked modems and no formal technical support is provided. Internet access is attained through use of a free dial-up internet access service, which is not consistently available. Sustaining momentum in internet use requires motivated community members dedicated to continuing the community organizing strategy with the goal of community self-sufficiency.

Participants overwhelmingly expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the training  program, as such opportunities were perceived as lacking. Designed with and for the community, the program provided ownership and an environment conducive to learning. However, participants recognized the necessity to persevere in the struggle to overcome external threats to the community initiative, including isolation from mainstream society, a culture of failure, and
exploitive dependency by those ostensibly trying to make improvements. By forming links and partnerships with those external to the community, such as neighborhood institutions, employers, and developers, the external threats may be reduced.