Students’ access to technology has improved over the years, but disparities still exist based on family income and racial and ethnic backgrounds. A recent study by ACT, a provider of assessments and credentials, reveals that 70 percent of students are worried about affording the technology necessary for college. This concern is particularly prevalent among students from lower-income families.
The study, titled “How High School Students Use and Perceive Technology at Home and School,” highlights the ongoing digital divide in education. While most high school students have access to smartphones and laptops at home, students from higher-income households are more likely to have access to a wider range of devices, including desktop computers and tablets. This unequal access to technology can impact students’ ability to complete assignments, engage in online learning, and develop essential digital literacy skills.
Furthermore, the study found that students’ confidence in using technology for schoolwork varied based on their family income. Students from higher-income families expressed higher confidence and trust in online information compared to their peers from lower-income families. Additionally, access to home internet varied significantly among students from different income brackets, with lower-income students more likely to rely on cellular data plans for internet access.
ACT CEO Janet Godwin emphasized the importance of addressing the digital divide to ensure equitable access to technology and quality internet for all students. Bridging this gap is crucial for preparing students for success in a digital-first world and developing essential skills for navigating an AI-driven environment.
The study also highlighted disparities in internet access based on racial and ethnic backgrounds, with Black and Hispanic students more likely to access the internet through cellular data plans compared to Asian and white students. This underscores the intersectionality of factors that contribute to the digital divide and the need for targeted interventions to promote equity in technology access.
As technology continues to play a central role in education, it is essential for school leaders to adopt culturally responsive frameworks and design strategies that promote equity through access. By addressing the digital divide and ensuring all students have access to the necessary technology resources, schools can empower students to thrive in a technology-driven society and succeed academically.
