Gaps and bits: Conceptualizing measurements for digital divide/s

被引:182
作者
Barzilai-Nahon, Karine [1 ]
机构
[1] Univ Washington, Informat Sch, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
关键词
access; digital divide; e-readiness; inclusion; inequality; information society indicators;
D O I
10.1080/01972240600903953
中图分类号
G2 [信息与知识传播];
学科分类号
05 ; 0503 ;
摘要
Three arguments are raised in this article with regard to the indices used to measure the digital divide. First, I criticize policymakers who rely on simplistic measures of the digital divide, at the expense of a thoughtful analysis of (1) the purpose of the tool, (2) the level of observation, and (3) the method of approaching the data. Second, I argue that networks and associated technologies are not neutral artifacts but are political and social spaces in their structure as well as in their content levels. Accordingly, we need to factor in the context as an important actor in conceptualizing and measuring the digital divide. Third, two general types of indices are used for the measurement of the digital divide(s): focused monotopical indices and comprehensive indices. Monotopical indices are more widely available, while comprehensive ones are rare. I argue that policymakers need to promote comprehensive indices over monotopical indices. Finally, I present a conceptual definition of the digital divide and a framework for developing a comprehensive index to measure it.
引用
收藏
页码:269 / 278
页数:10
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