Is edtech bridging or driving educational inequalities?

Is edtech bridging or driving educational inequalities?

Technology has facilitated the spread of education in many ways for some. Many people, such as busy workers and people with disabilities in the United States and other developed countries, have been able to complete a degree online and have more professional opportunities to find better jobs. However, these opportunities do not happen to every individual in the world. Less-developed countries face more challenges. Therefore, covering basic needs such as food, shelter, and health care are almost impossible. "Estimates from 2019 show that nearly 690 million people were hungry in that year" (UNICEF, 2021) Consequently, the lack of internet and technological tools increases an inequality gap for the ones in need. 

The opportunities to acquire an education are not balanced for everybody. So, the limitations of resources increase the gap of inequality. According to Inside Higher ed. l (2018), digital learning increases the privileges of those already in the most privileged areas. Access to the internet, phones, computers, games, virtual tools, and many more expand learning opportunities in disproportionate paths. Rural communities in the United States, also demonstrate education inequality compared to urban communities based on the lack of internet. (Holland, 2019).

Some of the steps that educators can take to fight educational inequality are being inclusive with content and images. Teaching the importance of diversity and inclusion creates empathy and respect for the ones who do not have the same opportunities. Instructional designers should make relevant curriculums with real-life examples of the world to teach people the needs that others have to face and create more consciousness to support others. Understanding that underdeveloped countries have to face primary needs challenges and lack of internet could also support understanding generational trauma and the lack of opportunities in many communities. 

References

Inside higher ed. Is technology driving educational inequality? (2018). Retrieved October 6, 2022, from https://www.insidehighered.com/digital-learning/blogs/technology-and-learning/technology-driving-educational-inequality 

Holland, B. (2019, April 18). Strategies for tackling digital equity. Getting Smart. Retrieved October 6, 2022, from https://www.gettingsmart.com/2019/04/18/strategies-for-tackling-digital-equity/ 

SDG goal 2: Zero hunger. UNICEF DATA. (2021, February 24). Retrieved October 6, 2022, from https://data.unicef.org/sdgs/goal-2-zero-hunger/