Comments on: Should we tackle the digital divide or live with it?

By: Dave

Dave — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 10:13:49 +0000

I think there’s a tendency to overplay the importance and seriousness of a ‘digital divide’, there will always be people who are enthusiastic about technology and those who couldn’t care less. Perhaps a more serious concern about division in society (that lingers over questions of access and education) is the dreadful record the UK has on child poverty verses the astronomic wages of those in the City.

By: Andy Mabbett

Andy Mabbett — Sat, 16 May 2009 11:37:38 +0000

For some value of “fully”. They don’t need to know how microchips work or understand ADSL protocols, to decide whether or not it would be useful to be able to pay, say, their council tax or vehicle duty on-line.

They do need to know that it’s possible to do so, how easy and advantageous it is to do so, and that they can easily get access.

By: Michael

Michael — Sat, 16 May 2009 09:31:20 +0000

Of course people should be allowed to decide to opt out – but are they making an informed choice?

Andy, a question to answer your question:

Can people make informed choices if they don’t fully comprehend the technology, the subtle changes in social norms, or the potential consequences?

(I’m not saying they can’t, just questioning it.)

By: Andy Mabbett

Andy Mabbett — Fri, 15 May 2009 23:58:29 +0000

She uses a spell-checker, too. Sorry.

By: Andy Mabbett

Andy Mabbett — Fri, 15 May 2009 23:36:36 +0000

Just found this thanks to your Tweet. Of course people should be allowed to decide to opt out - but are they making an informed choice? Fear can be overcome by information. We've all seen luddites converted by a good teacher, or even just a pressing need. One of my most technophobe friends became "digitally engaged" when her son moved overseas. Now she happily downlaods msuic, chats online, an so on.