Coronavirus unveils the digital divide in our education system

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The coronavirus has exposed a deeply rooted problem in childhood education that could damage our national economy long after the pandemic subsides. Broadly speaking, that problem is a lack of preparedness for the future. As the private sector grows increasingly digitized with each passing year, many American students lack even a basic understanding of digital technologies, and are becoming less qualified for the thousands of advanced manufacturing jobs that will soon dominate America’s mid-century economy. Often from marginalized communities, these students are on the wrong end of the digital divide. The coronavirus has shown us that basic Internet access and digital capabilities are not simply essential to a child’s technological education, but are fast becoming essential to a child’s educational success. The answer to the digital divide is clear. Policymakers must push for schools nationwide, and particularly those in less resourced communities, to invest in connecting students with next generation technology now. 5G, or the fifth generation wireless network, will not only allow students trapped on the wrong side of the digital divide to learn at lightning fast speeds, but also enable cutting edge technologies like augmented and virtual reality that will be used in future manufacturing and businesses processes. By engaging with and learning on these technologies early, American students will be better poised to enter the workforce of tomorrow.

[Francis Taylor served as undersecretary for intelligence and analysis at the Department of Homeland Security and as assistant secretary of diplomatic security for the Department of State now with Cambridge Global Advisors]


Coronavirus unveils the digital divide in our education system