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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.