I am reading "Technology and Social Inclusion: Rethinking the digital divide", by Mark Warschauer. His basic argument is that the digital divide can not be bridged with just machines connected to the internet-- of course.
In the second chapter he discusses "Models of Access". He comes to the conclusion that the best model for access is one of literacy. This model compares literacy and ICT (information and communication technology).
"The development of more sophisticated understanding of literacy did not lead to downplaying its importance. Rather, by better understanding literacy, academics, educators and policymakers could better promote it. Similarly, by better understanding the broad and complex nature of ICT access, we can also better promote it." (p.47)
This makes me think a lot about the 1:1 laptop program. How are we leveraging this amazingly well supported program to help bridge the divide. Is there a divide in our student population? Some kids do not use their laptops to improve their work or do higher level thinking. As one teacher once said, for many students they are just really big ipods. Many are not literate, yet.
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