There are various barriers or hurdles students can face when trying to access or grow through digital learning. Some of those barriers include access to internet access at home, access to a functioning computer, laptop, or tablet that will allow students to complete assignments, and finally basic digital literacy. The charts below from Pew Research shows the steady growth of internet usage among American adults and usage of mobile technology. This increase has trickled down to young adults as apparent in many school districts who are adopting BYOD or other technology based programs in bring more technology in the brick and mortar schools.
I think students how have more ability to access the internet and technology resources than students 5-10 years ago. Many of the students have functioning electronic devices and internet access, but I believe the biggest issue is digital literacy or how to use technology effectively. As a teacher, our job is equip students to think critically and be better able to use resources like technology to learn and grow. I think these skills are lacking more than anything and impeding students being successful with digital learning. Resources are there for most individuals, but they don't know how to successfully use them!!
To aid in elimination of barriers, teachers and parents can better educate their children on responsible digital citizenship as well as technology usage. The world is truly your oyster when you have access to technology, but learning to effectively using that power for good and success is what is needed in schools and homes. Additionally, affording those parents and students who do not have regular access to technology, locations suggestions for where free Wifi spots are for those families to access the internet away from home. Additionally, development of programs to offer gently used tablets, laptops, and computers to families who cannot afford one for their homes so that all students have the ability to access digital learning.
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