Essay

In roughly 1000 words, (4 pages double spaced) discuss the following:

Consider the readings, video presentations, class discussions, extra-curricular research, and your personal experience(s) on the digital divide. Briefly discuss what the digital divide is, its ramifications, and the global phenomena that drive it.

Why is the digital divide an important issue?

What are the effects of global technological inequality? Elaborate on the roles that the various levels of actors play: individuals (urban and rural), non-profit organizations, international corporations, and national & international governing bodies.

What are the barriers and successes?

Cite specific examples from either our material, which has largely covered Africa, or external sources that cover different (but analogous) regions in the divide.

These topics should primarily be discussed in a global context but feel free to discuss it in terms of a developed/urban vs underdeveloped/rural context.

DIRECTIONS: This first essay is a culmination of the topics we've covered so far; you will only need to utilize the material from the first three modules (weeks 1 - 6).

But this essay also serves as a stepping stone for the next essay. For this assignment you do not need to cite external sources for this first paper. You will be required to use external sources for the final essay.

However, all sources must be cited; if you use another student's point from the discussion board you must give credit to that person. The same is true for the readings and video presentations. You may use any citation style you wish.

You do not need to write four pages to receive an A, although you be more likely to earn an A if your arguments are fully developed, organized, and supported. You may write more than four pages if you wish.

Textbook - Globalization and the digital divide edited by Kirk St. Amant and Bolanle A. Olaniran