What type of barriers might impede students' opportunities to access digital learning?
The different type of barriers that impede the students opportunities to access digital leaning are low bandwidth, disabilities, income disparity. Students usually don't have jobs which pay enough to run a household. The student must have access to an electronic device in order to participate. Along with this, they will need some form of high speed internet service which can provide them with the speed and capability to download from and search the internet. Some students live in areas where internet access is not available. Other students may have parents or caregivers who cannot afford high speed internet connection. If a student has a disability, this causes even more of a barrier because they may need specialized equipment as well. All these are things that are generally out of the child's control.
What might we do to eliminate such barriers?
To help eliminate some of the barriers people with knowledge and resources must get involved. This includes getting the word out about different services that which offer free high speed internet to low income families. A lot of times, people have no idea what is awaiting them if they apply for help. Also, showing low income families the important of internet services. Schools also should have programs for students to receive a laptop or other electronic device if they do not have one. This is the only way one can participate in digital leaning. They must have a device. Students with disabilities should be assessed to see what specialized equipment they would need and then that equipment should not only be provided, but the student and parent should be shown how to use it. Public libraries and many restaurants have free wifi which students may be able to use if they have their own computers. This can be helpful as a back up plan if power is lost.
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