Multidimensions of digital inequality of the TANF population

Yolandra Antoinette PLUMMER

Abstract


Abstract. This study applies the multidimensional digital inequality framework to analyze the complex ways in which digital access varies among low-income populations. This research specifically examines the results of digital skills training for individuals receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits and how it shapes their Internet use as well as returns of use. The research shows the importance of the multidimensional nature of digital inequality, focusing on how access and use of digital technologies varies among individuals with formal digital literacy skills training. Findings from the research offer insight into the need for additional technological investments and multistakeholder engagement.

Keywords. Digital inequality; Digital literacy skills; Digital technology; NorthStar assessment; TANF.

JEL. I23; I24; I38; J15.

Keywords


Digital inequality; Digital literacy skills; Digital technology; NorthStar assessment; TANF.

Full Text:


References


2Gen Approach. (2022, September 22). Ascend at the Aspen Institute. [Retrieved from].

APLU. (2022, December 28). Land-grant university faq. [Retrieved from].

Blank, G., & Groselj, D. (2014). Dimensions of internet use: Amount, variety, and types. Information, Communication & Society, 17(4), 417–435. doi. 10.1080/1369118X.2019.1646777

Bowser administration to celebrate infrastructure week by highlighting District investments. (n.d.). DMOI. [Retrieved from].

Census Reporter. (n.d.). Census profile: Washington, DC. [Retrieved from].

DiMaggio, P., Hargittai, E., Celeste, C., & Shafer, S. (2020). Excerpts from digital inequality: From unequal access to differentiated use. In Inequality in the United States: A Reader (1st ed., p. Chapter 11). Routledge. doi. 10.4324/9781003071709

Dolan, J.E. (2016). Splicing the divide: A review of research on the evolving digital divide among K–12 students. Journal of Research on Technology in Education, 48(1), 16-37. doi. 10.1080/15391523.2015.1103147

Edwards, L. (2020). Protecting digital rights during a pandemic, UK IGF 2020 Session Speakers. [Retrieved from].

Goldberg, H. (2002). Improving tanf program outcomes for families with barriers to employment, Centre on Budget and Policy Priorities. [Retrieved from].

Halverson, E.R., & Sheridan, K. (2014). The maker movement in education. Harvard Educational Review, 84(4), 495–504. doi. 10.17763/haer.84.4.34j1g68140382063

Helsper, E. (2021a). The Digital Disconnect: The Social Causes and Consequences of Digital Inequalities. SAGE. doi. 10.4135/9781526492982

Helsper E.J. (2008) Digital Inclusion: An Analysis of Social Disadvantage and the Information Society. Department for Communities and Local Government, London, UK.

Microsoft. (n.d.). How the University of D.C. is working to close the digital divide. Microsoft Education Blog. [Retrieved from].

Neuman, S.B. & Celano, D. (2006). The knowledge gap: Implications of leveling the playing field for low-income and middle-income children. Reading Research Quarterly, 41, 176-201. doi. 10.1598/RRQ.41.2.2

Nussbaum, M.C. (2001). Women and human development: The capabilities approach. (The Seeley Lectures: Series Number 3), Cambridge University Press. doi. 10.1017/CBO9780511841286

Presidential committee on information literacy: Final report. (2012). Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL). [Retrieved from].

Rowsell, J., & Morrell, E. (n.d.). Digital Divide. International Literacy Association [Retrieved from].

van Deursen, A.J.A.M. (2020). Digital inequality: During a pandemic: quantitative study of differences in COVID-19-related Internet uses and outcomes among the general population. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 22(8), [e20073]. doi. 10.2196/20073

van de Werfhorst, H.G., Kessenich, E., & Geven, S. (2022). The digital divide in online education: Inequality in digital readiness of students and schools. Computers and Education Open, 3, 100100. doi. 10.1016/j.caeo.2022.100100

van Dijk, J.P. (2013). A Theory of the Digital Divide. Routledge Books, 49-72. doi. 10.4324/9780203069769-10

van Dijk, J.A.G.M. (2006). Digital divide research, achievement, and shortcomings. Poetics, 34(4-5), 221-235. doi. 10.1016/j.poetic.2006.05.004

van Dijk, J.A.G.M. (2005). The Deepening Divide: Inequality in the Information Society. Sage Publications. London, UK.

Vulture, C. (2022). A Simple Guide to Cultural Competency Training. Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. [Retrieved from].

Yee, V., Bajaj, S.S., & Stanford, F.C. (2022). Paradox of telemedicine: building or neglecting trust or equity. The Lancet, 4(7), 480-81. doi. 10.1016/S2589-7500(22)00100-5




DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1453/jepe.v10i1.2404

Refbacks

  • There are currently no refbacks.


Bookmark and Share


.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Journal of Economics and Political Economy - J. Econ. Pol. Econ. - JEPE - www.kspjournals.org

ISSN: 2148-8347

Editor: jepe@ksplibrary.org   Secretarial: secretarial@ksplibrary.org   Istanbul - Turkey.

Copyright © KSP Library