Closing the Digital Divide Gap: Explain the concept of the digital divide. Why does the digital divide exist? List and explain three actions by the government, corporations, or individual that would help eliminate the divide.

According to Media Impact, digital divide, "is the term used to describe the lack of access to digital technology among low-income, rural, and minority groups" (Biagi 373). In other words, in today's technology reliant society, those that do not have access are falling behind in the digital curve and suffering the consequences. This divide can be responsible for limiting job opportunities, access to the latest news, and communication with friend, family, and business correspondence.

This divide exists due to the fact that some people cannot afford to buy the expensive equipment and services necessary while others, like seniors, are reluctant to adapt to new technology. However, computers and other forms of digital technology are quickly becoming a necessity for numerous everyday. In the near future, everything will be done online, from paying your bills to shopping. For students, the internet is a now critical part of the homework process. The people that are unable to buy or understand how to use technology will be helpless.

Therefore, several actions are needed to help close the digital divide gap. First, the Government is currently investing money into the FCC's National Broadband Plan which expands the broadband infrastructure nationwide. According to the plan, the broadband internet is, "changing how we educate children, deliver health care, manage energy, ensure public safety, engage government, and access, organize and disseminate knowledge" (broadband.gov). Second, corporations, like Charter and AT&T, need put their greedy motives aside and make the internet affordable more affordable for all households instead of raising prices and even creating monopolies in some area. Third, access to the internet and educational material is needed to help teach how to use the internet effectively. Individuals could donate their time and volunteer in senior centers in order to teach the elderly how to use the internet.

Works Cited

"National Broadband Plan Executive Summary."National Broadband Plan. Federal Communication Commission, n.d. Web. 27 Aug. 2012. <http://www.broadband.gov/plan/executive-summary/>.