A couple recent papers crossed my desk that examine bridging the digital divide. The papers try to help understand factors that limit adoption of residential broadband.
Former CRTC Chair Ian Scott released a paper via IRPP (the Institute for Research in Public Policy), “Conquering the Next Frontier in Bridging the Digital Divide” [pdf, 478 KB]. The paper sets out recommendations for improving internet access in underserved communities.
He observes, “Low-income Canadians, regardless of where they live, struggle to afford the technology and internet plans needed to take full advantage of the digital economy.”
The September 2024 issue of Telecom Policy includes an article examining the US Government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). “Understanding uptake in demand-side broadband subsidy programs: The affordable connectivity program case”.
The results of this study suggest several opportunities for adjusting ongoing initiatives and designing new direct support programs for broadband that should be of interest to policymakers at different administrative levels (federal, state, county and even more local) as well as to other stakeholders. The positive correlation between ACP enrollment and areas with a large share of households in severe poverty underscores the social dimension in ACP enrollment decisions. Since not all eligible households were enrolled in ACP, it is likely that “early adopter” households conveyed information through local networks about the program’s benefits. This may have encouraged other low-income households to enroll sooner than they might otherwise.
The researchers found that local housing policies may help encourage families to subscribe to low-cost internet programs. The paper notes that the FCC established a pilot program to fund ACP outreach through local housing authorities and housing advocacy organizations. The authors also observed a positive association between the presence of public libraries and ACP enrollment rates, indicating that anchor institutions may facilitate enrollment.
On September 24, IRPP will be hosting a lunchtime seminar (in Ottawa and online via Zoom). “The Next Frontier in Canada’s Digital Divide” is being promoted as a conversation about digital connectivity across Canada.
Indigenous and northern communities are still behind the rest of Canada in terms of the availability of internet at speeds needed to take full advantage of essential services such as health care, education and remote work. Low-income Canadians also struggle to afford the technology and internet plans needed to participate in the digital economy, including government services and information, banking, health care, education and employment. To overcome these gaps, governments should pursue new approaches that address the needs of underserved communities and improve the affordability of the internet.
In “Mapping the digital divide”, I wrote that it isn’t enough to have affordable broadband at everyone’s doorstep. Do we even agree on what “affordable broadband” means. I have frequently called for more research to understand those factors that inhibit adoption. There are populations with access to broadband, even where targeted affordable options are available.
Do we need to invest more in developing digital skills?
How do we develop strategies to overcome digital phobias among underserved populations?