Dealing+with+the+Digital+Divide

Any discussion of technology in schools must also deal directly with the problem of the digital divide, the fact that while many of our students have up-to-date computer software, hardware, and Internet access, some students do not.

=Useful articles for thinking about the digital divide:= [|"The Digital Divide: Where we are"] [|The Digital Divide Network]--a website devoted entirely to this issue

=Hardware:=

Netbooks--Netbooks are powerful, small laptops (about 2/3rd the size of a traditional laptop) that allow users to use the web, e-mail, word process, and perform most functions of a standard-sized computer. Memory on netbooks is limited, so it's not good for installing large programs or playing interactive video games, but it's fine for YouTube videos and most of the basic programs available today. As of now, Netbooks run on Windows (both XP and 7) and Linux platforms. As of 12/09, many Netbooks are listing for under $300. For more information, click [|here] and [|here] and [|here] and [|here] and [|here].

Cellphones as a tool for school

Ways to get computers for students

=Software:=

Free-ware: Free alternatives to MS Word--[|10 free programs], [|More options] Free alternatives to MS PowerPoint--[|13 options] Free e-mail services--[|18 free e-mail providers]

=Internet Access=

=Other Resources for Students from Low-Income Families= [|Wi-fi hotspots in Brookline]

[|Computer access in Brookline Public Libraries]

Resources in Brookline Public Housing for Families Each family building (3) has approximately 9 computers in a lab space. These labs are, unfortunately, only open for use 9 hours per week (and closed on weekends). During these times, there is one computer assistant available. 1/2 of the 9 hours is for students in K-7; the other 1/2 of the time is reserved for students in 8-12 AND adults. The computers in the lab are a mix of Macs and PCs and have access (through RCN) to the Internet.

At this time, there is no funding to expand the availability of these labs. Clearly, this is a under-utilized resource.