003: the digital divide: why doesn't everyone have internet (ks3)
Investigate the global Digital Divide and learn why internet access is not equal for everyone, covering cost, geography, and skills.
The Connection Crisis: Bridging the Gap
The Scenario
You have been hired by a global charity called "Connect the World". They need a clear, powerful digital leaflet to explain what the Digital Divide is to politicians and suggest ways to fix it. You need to prove that internet access should be a human right, not just a luxury.
The Persona
As a Responsible Innovator, you care about Ethics, Law, and Society. You don't just ask "Can we build it?", you ask "Is it fair?". Your goal is to ensure technology helps everyone, not just the wealthy.
You have been hired by a global charity called "Connect the World". They need a clear, powerful digital leaflet to explain what the Digital Divide is to politicians and suggest ways to fix it. You need to prove that internet access should be a human right, not just a luxury.
As a Responsible Innovator, you care about Ethics, Law, and Society. You don't just ask "Can we build it?", you ask "Is it fair?". Your goal is to ensure technology helps everyone, not just the wealthy.
1
Define the Divide
Open a web browser and search for
What is the Digital Divide?Look for the three main barriers: Access (Hardware/Cables), Affordability (Money), and Ability (Skills).
Find a map showing "Global Internet Usage". Which continents have the least connection?
2
Investigate the Causes
Research the following questions to gather your evidence:
1
The Rural Problem: Why is it hard to get fast internet in the middle of the countryside or a desert?
2
The Cost: How much is a laptop compared to the monthly wage in a developing country?
3
The Skills Gap: If you gave someone a computer who had never seen one, could they use it?
3
Design Your Campaign
Open presentation software (like PowerPoint) or a publishing tool.
Create a single-page "Digital Leaflet" or "Campaign Poster".
Title: "Bridging the Digital Divide".
Section 1: A clear definition of the problem.
Section 2: "The 3 As" (Access, Affordability, Ability) explained in your own words.
Section 3: A "Call to Action"—suggest one way we can fix this (e.g., Cheaper tariffs, satellite internet, free library lessons).
Outcome
A clear definition of the Digital Divide.
Identification of the main causes (money, geography, skills).
A professional layout with suitable images.
Accurate spelling and grammar (The Responsible Innovator is a professional!).
Last modified: December 15th, 2025
