The COVID-19 pandemic pushed schools everywhere to use technology for remote learning. It also showed that many students lack the devices, internet connection, and skills they need to take part fully in digital education. This explainer covers what digital access means, why the gap matters, practical ways to close it, and the benefits for students.
On this page 6 sections
What digital access means
Digital access is the ability to get and use digital devices, software, and content. For a student, it means having:
- a computer or tablet
- a reliable internet connection
- the software and tools needed to complete assignments
- the skills to use all of these well
When some students have these resources and others do not, the result is a digital divide, and it affects how well students learn.
The challenge: the digital divide
The gap is real, even in wealthy countries. According to a report by the National Center for Education Statistics, about 14% of U.S. households with school-age children did not have internet access in 2019. The divide hits low-income students and students in rural areas hardest.
Having a device and a connection is not the whole answer. Some students who have both still lack the digital skills to use them effectively.
Ways to promote digital access for all students
Closing the gap takes several approaches at once, with educators, education professionals, and other stakeholders working together.
1. Device access programs
These programs make sure every student has a computer or tablet for remote learning. For example, the California Department of Education ran a program during the pandemic that gave devices and internet connectivity to students who did not have them.
2. Connectivity programs
These programs help students get a reliable internet connection at home. Some school districts have partnered with internet service providers to offer free or discounted internet service to low-income families.
3. Digital literacy training
Training helps students build the skills to use digital tools well, such as:
- basic computer skills
- internet safety
- online collaboration tools
Schools can build this training into the curriculum or offer it as an after-school program.
4. Community partnerships
Partners can help schools get the resources they need. For example, a school might work with a local library or community center to give students free access to devices and internet.
Benefits of digital access for all students
| Benefit | What it means for students |
|---|---|
| More engagement and participation | Students with devices and connectivity can take full part in remote learning, which supports better learning outcomes. |
| Better equity | When all students have the same resources, they have an equal chance to learn and succeed. |
| More flexibility | Students can reach course materials and assignments from anywhere, at any time, and fit learning to their needs and schedules. |
| Stronger 21st-century skills | Students build digital literacy, collaboration, and communication skills that many jobs require. |
Why it matters beyond the pandemic
The pandemic made the problem urgent, but the need for digital access will continue after it. When schools, families, and communities work together to provide devices, connectivity, and skills, every student, whatever their income or location, gets a fair chance to learn and succeed in a digital world.
Frequently asked questions
What is digital access in education?
Digital access is the ability to get and use digital devices, software, and content. For students, it means having a computer or tablet, a reliable internet connection, the tools to complete assignments, and the skills to use them.
What is the digital divide?
The digital divide is the gap between students who have devices, connectivity, and digital skills and those who do not. It affects learning outcomes and falls hardest on low-income and rural students.
How can schools promote digital access for all students?
Schools can run device access programs, connectivity programs such as free or discounted internet for low-income families, digital literacy training, and partnerships with libraries or community centers.
What are the benefits of digital access for all students?
It increases engagement and participation, improves equity, gives students more flexibility in when and where they learn, and builds 21st-century skills like digital literacy, collaboration, and communication.
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