Let’s Do This: When you have read the materials in Lesson 1, test your understanding of the lesson

concepts by answering the following questions:

1. Explain in your own word digital divide.

The term digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to the internet and
those who don't. The digital divide can affect people in many different ways. For example, it can
make it harder for people to find jobs, get an education, or access healthcare.

2. There has been a debate on the existence of the digital divide. What is your opinion? Is there
one or not?
I think a digital divide exists, and it’s a growing problem as more and more services move online.
Mostly, it exists between the rich and poor, but there is also a division due to cultural
differences, for there are some who are comfortable using technology and some who are not.
This widens the gap or the inequality between people or countries.

3. Based on the statistics, which countries have the advantage in terms of digital divide? Why?
How about the Philippines?
- The statistics clearly show the advantage of South Korea in terms of the digital divide. With low
digital inequality, they have greater access to information, job opportunities, healthcare,
communication technology, education, and many more. The Philippines ranked high in terms of
the digital divide, which means the inequality between people who benefit from the internet
and those who do not is broad. This results in limited access to quality information and
education, limited access to opportunity and healthcare, and a poor communication and
information dissemination system.

4. Is there anything like equal access to computing technology? In otherwise is it achievable in any
society?
- Computing technology is still a privilege. Not everyone can afford to have a computer or
smartphone and access the internet. It might be an essential and very important resource for
anyone’s development and career, but with the factors that push people away from technology,
the digital divide grows the inequality of people. Closing the gap, however, is not impossible, as
there are companies and institutions working to provide everyone with access to technology.
Facebook, a social metaverse company, promotes free basic online services with no data
charges, which greatly benefits people who cannot afford expensive mobile data. There are also
programs that advocate digital literacy, which aid people with less knowledge of computer
technology and the internet. The education system here in our country has already
implemented ICT and Digital Literacy subjects as early as 4th grade in order to develop learners
to become able 21st-century citizens. With the initiative of companies and the support of the
government, equal access to computing technology is achievable.