Digital divide is reference to the split between people who have full access to digital technology, like the computers or the Internet, and those who have limited or no access to digital technology. The digital divide includes the accessibility to the technology, and the knowledge of how to use it. There are two types of digital divides as well, one which is a domestic problem, and then there is the global digital divide.

The digital Divide Impacts us domestically in several different ways. There are schools that lack the technology. Without the technology it is much harder for students to acquire skills such as the use of Microsoft, typing, experience in excel, and knowledge in photo-shop. Most, if not all of these skills, are critical requirements for several careers in today’s society. In other cases the lack of technology can make it harder for people to access things like news, weather, general knowledge, career opportunities, and so on.

While there is a domestic or local digital divides, on a bigger scale, there is a global digital divide. The global digital divide describes countries with scarce technology verses more technological countries. As the technology increases, less developed countries with less technology, get left behind. As technology grows, the access to information grows. People living in very developed countries can easily contact someone in a different country through mobile devices, social networking sites, and email. However, in other countries, it is difficult for someone to contact a person in the next town over. Less developed countries also have difficulty participating in the global economy. Although many of these countries face trouble, the spread of technology has become extremely constructive for them.

There are several organizations that are trying to diminish the digital gap. Some of the difficulties they face are poverty stricken countries, language barriers, cultural issues, and complications with different governments.

Globally: There are some businesses that have been trying to reduce the gap for those less developed countries. There are sites like Dotsavvy that are promoting growth for many Kenyan businesses. Some of these business include Tanga Cement, NASCOP(National AID/STD, TB, and Leprosy Control Programme), and Crown Foods (Kenya’s leading mineral water company). There are also non-profit companies and organizations like Geekcorp, Eduvision, and Inveneo, who’s mission is to “connect those who need it most” by implementing ICT’s. There are also more popular companies, like One Laptop per Child, which provides laptops to children in less developed countries. These companies are hoping to save lives, provide economic opportunities, and educate citizens.

Domestically: Although the global digital divide is a major issue that needs to be repaired, the domestic digital divide is still and issue that each country faces. There have been few ways that America has been trying to close its own divide. One way is by providing money to schools who need it. General Mills and Campbells Soup are two programs that collectlabels for education or box tops for education, and offers opportunities for underprivileged schools to receive some needed technology. Also, some establishments like public libraries are providing not only computers for those to work on, but also Internet access. This provides free Internet access to those who may not be able to afford a computer.