Measuring the impact of technology donations

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There are various areas of opportunity to improve digital inclusion in

Australia

CONTINUED ADVOCACY AND

COLLABORATION

MEASUREMENT OF LONG-TERM

IMPLICATIONS

One of the key challenges in measuring the extent of digital exclusion

amongst high school students is the absence of reliable and comprehensive

data on digital exclusion within Australian schools. This includes

understanding the long term implications of digital exclusion, along with the

benefits and impact of technological donations.

Collecting data that reveals disparities in digital access, affordability and ability

across demographics, coupled with an exploration of the impact of long term

digital exclusion can help to substantiates advocacy efforts, underscore the

necessity for change, and inform policy discussions.

Departments of Education should consider enhanced collaboration with

organisations that are trying to tackle digital exclusion and work together to

develop data tracking mechanisms and processes.

This can facilitate targeted solutions including: funding models to support

digital access and digital literacy programs and integration of digital literacy

and computer skills into school curricula to equip students with essential

digital skills from an early age.

Additionally, it is crucial to undertake further research to understand the

impact computer donations/ increased access can have on academic

performance/ digital ability to provide further valuable insights for informed

decision-making.

Continued and increased advocacy plays a pivotal role in raising awareness,

fostering policy change, and driving action to improve digital inclusion in Australia.

Numerous organisations are addressing digital exclusion within the Australian

context, however it seems that this often done independently leading to

fragmented data, which may lead to difficulties assessing impact. As such,

continued activities to effectively reduce the digital divide across demographics

hinge upon cohesive cross-sector collaboration.

This involves collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, businesses,

and community organisations to combine resources and expertise for more

potent advocacy. The establishment of a dedicated national coordination body or

platform would enable seamless communication, collaboration, and knowledge

sharing among diverse stakeholders. Additionally, creating a centralised

repository for best practices, toolkits, and resources can serve as a valuable

learning hub, enabling organisations to glean insights from one another's

successes and challenges.

Effective advocacy should prioritise the development and implementation of

policies that prioritise digital inclusion, addressing key factors like infrastructure,

affordability, and digital skills. In addition, engaging directly with policymakers

through consultations, submissions, and meetings remains crucial for conveying

the critical importance of digital inclusion in Australia.

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