Social Issues And Tech

you explored different types of digital divides, including geographical (urban-rural), racial, educational, intergenerational, and international. For this assignment, you are to write an note on how the digital divide you chose affected the ability to use the technological advancement (again, your choice) used during the CoVid pandemic.

Your completed note will include at least one paragraph for each of the following:

Explanation of your choice of digital divide (Urban-Rural, Racial, Educational, Intergenerational, or International) and a description of a specific technological advancement reliant on internet access; include one external reference. Be sure to describe both the specific technological advancement and the specific digital divide.
A detailed description of how this specific advancement was used during the pandemic; include one (1) external reference
A problem associated with the use of your chosen advancement during the pandemic shared by both sides of the digital divide; include one (1) external reference
Two problems experienced only by the digitally disadvantaged; include two (2) external references
Your recommendation for how to close the gap to prevent the additional barriers faced by the digitally disadvantaged; include at least one (1) external reference to support your recommendation.
Note that your described technological advancement should be as specific as video conferencing or virtual medical assistance.

Sample Solution

  The digital divide that has had the most significant impact on the ability to use technological advancements during the CoVid pandemic is geographical, or urban-rural. This divide is especially concerning in rural areas where access to broadband internet and financial resources are limited. For instance, many students in rural communities do not have access to high speed internet and must rely on slow connections provided by cell phone companies or dial-up services. As a result, these students are unable to attend online classes or work from home as easily as their peers who enjoy fast broadband speeds. Additionally, many families living in rural areas lack the financial resources necessary to purchase computers and other devices needed for online learning or teleworking.
his reading explores Pakeha ethnicity and the importance of social stratification in discussing the level of inequality and privilege present in New Zealand society. Ballara (1986) defines the word Pakeha as the ‘Maori name for Europeans’. Many other contemporary Maori sources define the term as “White or New Zealander of European descent” (Moor, 2011 & Ngata, 2010). This reading makes note of the fact that there are advantages that belong to the dominant white majority in New Zealand however the advantages and the privileges are reinforced by its invisibility and is also disguised. McIntosh (2007) supports this statement: we should see white privilege as an “invisible package of unearned assets”. The norms and values of the White people, the ways in which they act and live serve as the basis by which non-White people are judged. Pakeha acknowledge and support the symbolic nature and aspects of Maori culture; the incorporation of the Maori version in the national anthem, the Haka, the powhiri and educating people of Te Reo Maori. However, they oppose any possible potential aspects that may challenge and hinder the existing economic power structure such as ownership of Maori land, tertiary scholarships and awards for Maori students and so on. It raises questions and doubts about whether or not the Pakeha’s acknowledgment of the mere symbolic aspects of the Maori culture is actually genuine if they are not willing to share economic power and privileges. The self-labelling as Pakeha represents their recognition of the cultural difference, and also displays the privileges that being a member of the majority group gives. In more recent years however, Pakeha ethnicity also served as a symbol of respect to the Maori in an attempt at acknowledging their “First Nation” status and the Treaty of Waitangi. Ethnicity is a principle element of social stratification, and as a result, of inequality that is present within society. Maori, in comparison to the New Zealand population as a whole, were at an extreme disadvantage in terms of education and employment, but were also experiencing discrimination in institutions, workplaces and communities. The dominant majority Pakeha culture and social structure