What is Digital Inclusion?
Digital inclusion is a national priority in the United States, and should be a high priority in Maine. High-speed Internet access is widely recognized as a necessity for full participation in today’s society. Employers, educators, businesses, healthcare providers, and civic institutions expect people to have access to computers and broadband connectivity. However, accessible, reliable, and affordable broadband service continues to be out of reach for millions of Americans, many of whom live in low-income households. This gap in adoption of high-speed Internet and the lack of skills needed to use broadband-enabled tools in meaningful ways continue to be significant problems that policymakers, researchers, and practitioners need to focus on in the United States and in Maine.
Digital Inclusion involves:
- Affordable Internet
- Affordable Equipment
- Digital Literacy Training
- Public Computer Access