Blog # 2

1. What exactly is the digital divide? (150-200 words)

The digital divide is the separation of literacy level or access to technology between groups and communities. In other words, it's that profound gap that occurs between people when technology tries to proceed as the forerunner without making sure everyone else is on board. Because we have put so much emphasis on technology in our culture, there exists a group of people without the proper knowledge to use it, or even in some cases, gain access to it. It is this separation in being able to utilize technology which defines the "digital divide". Without the sufficient access or knowledge to technology, it creates an economic gap, hindering and even compounding those without it. Consider a family who is already in a poor spot financially, without the funds to afford a computer. Without access to the internet, to a computer to type, this could hinder their student's grades at school, potentially leading to a minimum wage job.

Waschauer notes, "In addition, the notion of a digital divide - even in its broadest sense - implies a chain of causality, i.e., that lack of access (however defined) to computers and the Internet harms life chances. While this point is undoubtedly true, the reverse is equally true; those who are already marginalized will have fewer opportunities to access and use computers and the Internet. In fact, technology and society are intertwined and co-constitutive, and this complex interrelationship makes any assumption of causality problematic."

2. Can you think of any other metaphors besides the office
metaphors used with Windows and Macintosh operating systems that
might be better? How come these might work better? (150-200
words)

Facebook? Without having a facebook account, the current users may regard the others as non-existent and without sway in their affairs decided upon via the website. It is centered around communities of people and communication. Without that communication, it's like being part of the digital divide. Being a part of the lower strata, compounding yourself into a tiny not-so-technological hole within society.

I honestly can't think of any better metaphors, for the facebook reference relies on the usage of a technological device. Although this may be another reason why NOT having that technology or literacy towards it serves to further separate communities and society.