The term "digital divide" has become popular over the past few years to describe the lag time for new technology being adopted in the Black community.
We've spent lots of time discussing why it's difficult to take advantage of new technology (cost, social issues), but nobody has seriously looked at how we can use technology to make us the most capable and competitive people in the world.
If more African American youth had basic computer literacy, it would be in itself a good start. Once you have access to the Internet, practically any information you desire is within arm's reach. Basically, the 21st century equivalent of having an encyclopedia on your bookshelf - you may not know the answer, but can always find out.
I think that we are about to create some new ways of using technology to solve our greatest problems. What happens when we begin using broadband and VOIP to send custom entertainment to each others homes, bypassing the mainstream TV media?
What about when instead of going to a dangerous, second-rate school, a willing student can just log into a nationwide classroom taught by top-tier faculty? Where you can host virtual field trips and have group discussion via chat room?
If we stay at the forefront of technology, we'll have an advantage over all others. History has taught us that technical advancement is liberating - look what it's done for the working classes of India, China, and Nigeria.
If we're smart, we'll be early adopters while the rest of America continues to struggle with mediocre schools, declining social values, and an outdated strategy for doing business with the rest of the world.
It means redefining the construct through which we form our social and business relationships, and using the Internet to connect human capital throughout the world.
Posted By: Jon C.
Monday, November 5th 2007 at 7:52AM
You can also
click
here to view all posts by this author...
