If the last few years showed me anything, it is that “being connected” is no longer an option. From doctor/therapy visits to online classes that we are taking (right now), so much of life happens via the screen. I wonder if people ever stop to wonder what happens when there is no internet connection? Sieck’s article reminds us that the digital divide isn’t just about internet speed and the availability of everything at our fingertips. It is about access, equity, and the socio-economic classes that get left out when technology becomes the gatekeeper. In Digital Inclusion as a Social Determinant of Health, Sieck and her team make an important point that digital access is a basic part of an individual’s health and well-being. Their framework in Figure 1 highlights three essential things: access, digital literacy, and engagement. Not only does a person need more than a working router, but they also need the skills, wisdom, and confidence to use technology meaningfully. It is not enough to hand someone an iPad and hope for the best. True inclusion means helping people connect in ways that improve their lives.
Sanders and Scanlon take this a step further in The Digital Divide Is a Human Rights Issue, stating digital inclusion as a matter of social justice. Their stories about students doing homework in parking lots just to get a Wi-Fi signal really bothered me. The argument that access to technology isn’t just about convenience, but equality, education, and dignity. I found their arguments convincing because they connect digital access to broader issues like poverty and social exclusion. Their call for social workers to advocate for digital literacy programs felt practical.
Also, in Craig’s Adapting Clinical Skills to Telehealth with LGBTQ+ Youth it shows how digital inclusion can directly impact lives. Their approach to telehealth therapy created safer, more affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth. A perfect example of how technology can bridge emotional and social divides as well as digital ones.
Across all three readings, one thing stood out: the digital divide is not about devices but people. Sieck shows us the framework, Sanders & Scanlon remind us of why it matters, and Craig shows what success looks like in real life.
Bridging the digital divide means investing not just in technology education and equity. In today’s world, connection is power.
Hi! I enjoyed reading your thoughts. I liked how you tied all three readings together and focused on how digital inclusion is ultimately about people, not just devices. The example you mentioned about students doing homework in parking lots really stood out to me too; I think it captures the reality of how access gaps can affect education and opportunity. I also agree with your point that Craig’s study shows what success looks like in practice. AFFIRM Online is such a good example of tech being used to create connection.
I really enjoyed reading your post! I agree that internet connections along with the skills to operate the different digital platforms is necessary and common. That’s a great question, what would we do without the internet. As our previous discussion in Perusall proved that we can not go back to a time before the digital era and we can not stop nor slow down the progression. You’re right, as social workers we must advocate for equaity and inclusivity. I was also disturbed and concerned with students using Wifi in the parking lot, coffee shops, and libraries as we now need to have access at home. Students who do not have the access and also the skills to use the digital platforms will struggle in their education journey. Each article provided some suggestions on advocating and bridging the gap. It’s the responsibility of social workers to try different methods to see what will work.