Why Today’s Student Must Have Internet Access (and How To Provide It)

Technological advancements aren't equally available to all students. Education today is subject to a digital divide that makes equal access to the internet impossible. Students without internet access miss out on a substantial educational opportunity, which impacts the country's future. More imaginative citizens will create better solutions and increase the quality of life for everyone involved.

Innovative schools are leading the way to provide internet access to vulnerable students. This example can help schools in underprivileged environments offer a way for their students to succeed in the 21st century.

The Digital Divide in America’s Schools

70% of schools nationwide don't have a high-speed internet connection. High-speed internet allows users to keep up with growing website demands and access information on time. This valuable asset makes it difficult for students to access educational videos on YouTube, articles addressing current events that impact their lives, and online tests or quizzes required in their coursework.

Why Internet Access is Critical to Modern Education

90% of the information on the internet has been created in the past year. Having access to the internet allows students to keep up with information that might not make it into textbooks or that might become outdated by the time it becomes available in a traditional format.

Having access to this information empowers students to take charge of their education, and the research backs that up. Students with access to internet-capable devices tend to score higher on tests. Other studies showed that discipline issues decreased when students could use technology to help with their studies.

How Students Without Internet or Computers at Home Fall Behind

Low-income students often don't have access to devices at home. With the wealth of information and educational resources available on the internet, students from working-class families can improve their social standing and even help their families get out of poverty. But without internet access, they're prevented from any opportunities which could significantly improve their quality of life.

Laptop and Tablet Lending Programs

Schools that want to institute a laptop and tablet lending program face many different issues. Without a way to track these educational assets, they could easily follow after hundreds of businesses in one year. The majority of schools across the nation have limited funding across the board, let alone have enough set aside to replace missing technology. However, not providing students with access to the internet prevents them from obtaining the skills they need to perform well in today's job market.

How Public-Private Partnerships Provide Schools with Internet and Devices

Some organizations make it possible for schools to provide internet-capable devices to their students.

There are also several state and non-profit organizations dedicated to helping bridge the digital divide. These organizations support technology implementation that benefits students from all income levels.

The Importance of Asset Tracking to Control Costs and Preserve Access

Teaching takes a lot of time, so it can seem overwhelming to implement an asset tracking solution. However, it can save time and money for educational environments. Asset tracking systems make it more difficult for technology to disappear, ensuring students will continue to retain access to the technology necessary to succeed. Asset Panda will enable your school to make the most out of your tech budget and continue providing internet to less privileged students.

Future Solutions: Closing the Digital Divide

Academic staff and other tech-focused companies agree that lower-income families need internet access. Providing accessible technology helps students enter the job market prepared, instead of entering with a handicap compared to those with easy internet access. Laptop lending programs are a great way to give lower-income students a way to access the internet.

Promising Ideas to Create Universal Internet Access

Some commercial ISPs and other organizations are providing schools with industry-standard internet speeds. And a gigabyte internet connection helps students take advantage of home internet access to improve their studies.

Educational institutions can also customize our asset management software to help schools make the most of their technology. This ensures that all of their tech budgets help students access the internet and improve their studies with online resources.