How access gaps interact and shape digital divide: a cognitive investigation

Inequalities in the access to and use of information and communication technologies (ICT) have become an important area of concern for over a decade. Yet, theoretical attempts to understand the dynamics behind shaping these inequalities are scarce. This study draws upon the extent literature on digi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Behaviour & information technology 2015-04, Vol.34 (4), p.330-340
Main Authors: Ghobadi, Shahla, Ghobadi, Zahra
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
access
access gaps
Causality
Computer literacy
Data analysis
Digital
Digital divide
Dynamics
Focus groups
Inequalities
Information technology
Internet
Linkages
Mapping
Mathematical models
Motivation
Primary schools
qualitative methodology
RCM
revealed causal mapping
Skills
Technology adoption
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Summary:Inequalities in the access to and use of information and communication technologies (ICT) have become an important area of concern for over a decade. Yet, theoretical attempts to understand the dynamics behind shaping these inequalities are scarce. This study draws upon the extent literature on digital divide and explains how the four different access gaps (motivational, material, skills, and usage) interact and contribute to digital divide. Revealed causal mapping (RCM) is utilised to analyse the data collected from eight same-gender focus groups in four primary schools located in Iran. The revealed causal map demonstrates the interaction and linkages between different access gaps. The findings provide a theoretical account of the dynamics behind shaping digital divide and generate insights into extending the concepts of access gaps. We establish a theoretical model that places an emphasis on the centrality of motivational-related factors such as 'lack of interest in IT-related things' and 'lack of motivation to learn recent technology' as well as skills-related factors such as 'operating skills', 'anti-filtering skills', and 'lack of IT background'.
ISSN:0144-929X
1362-3001
DOI:10.1080/0144929X.2013.833650