How do we define digital inclusion?
At EU level the term eInclusion emerged at the start of the decade and was generally defined as aiming to ensure 'that "no one is left behind" in enjoying the benefits of ICT. e-Inclusion means both inclusive ICT and the use of ICT to achieve wider inclusion objectives'
http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/activities/einclusion/index_en.htm
O Donnell emphises the inclusive ICT aspect when she defines digital exclusion as 'the extent to which specific groups in society - including seniors, the unemployed, people with disabilities, women outside the labour force and others – are included in 'digital society'
http://www.susanodonnell.info/index.html
Digital inclusion is increasingly recognised as about far more than access. It is about empowerment. Access alone, however, does not equal Digital Inclusion. Governments must now actively pursue broader initiatives to meet the challenge. http://www.digitalaccess.org/pdf/White_Paper.pdf
Digital exclusion is also increasingly seen as an urgent social problem.
Inequality in the use and application of digital technologies is a new driver of social exclusion in the 21st century, which risks accelerating existing social divides and creating new ones. Digital exclusion is a symptom of wider exclusion, but also a cause.
From foreword to Delivering Digital Inclusion : An Action Plan for Consultation available at http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/communities/pdf/1001077.pdf
Just a start .... more to follow
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