Since the 2010s, digital has become an important pillar of our lives. Indeed, in recent years, the trend has been towards digitization and dematerialization. If this technical advancement seems to relieve some, others remain reluctant, out of fear or lack of understanding of the technologies. Today, a real digital divide is felt in society. It definitely needs to be resolved.
Today, more than 15% of the population is affected by what is commonly called illiteracy. But what is it ? Illectronism, or electronic illiteracy, is defined as the “difficulty or inability for an individual to use an electronic device”.
This digital illiteracy is a real challenge for society. Indeed, we are entering an era of mass dematerialization. The administration is dematerialized, health is dematerialized, trade is dematerialized, but a large number of interested parties remain excluded from this advancement, simply for lack of understanding or mastery of technology.
If for some, sending an email is a very simple task, while others encounter great difficulties for a simple internet search. A divide that is not only visible in control, but also on the scene of accessibility to devices.
An equally material fracture…
Being on the Internet is not free, it necessarily requires a connection device. Unfortunately, some cannot afford an electronic device or even an internet connection.
We were able to notice this problem with the Covid-19 crisis. For example, during the confinement, many students found themselves unable to follow their lessons, due to lack of devices or internet connection.
A youth also affected!
The urban legend of the digitally competent youngster is far from reality. While older generations are often affected by this inability to use digital technology, young people are no exception. In fact, it’s almost 30% of 15-29 year olds who feel unable to carry out a procedure or formality on the sites of thee-administration.
The dangers of this digital divide:
Everything is digitized, but some do not have the capacity to follow this progress. This difficulty creates an inequality that has a huge impact on society.
Having difficulty using devices can impact both private and professional life. Failing to file your taxes or claim reimbursement on the Medicare website can be very disabling. Beyond that, the employers are constantly asking for a mastery of digital toolspeople affected by illiteracy are therefore possibly excluded from the labor market.
This constant exclusion affects morale and can lead to a number of health problems. Today, illiteracy is a real problem that affects many individuals, creating a major chasm between two categories of the population. It is therefore imperative to create digital inclusion systems to enable each individual to regain confidence in digital technology.
Emmaus connect: player in digital inclusion
L’association Emmaus Connect is an association that fights for digital inclusion. It offers beneficiaries the opportunity to understand digital technology during a face-to-face discussion with a volunteer, during which the beneficiary can ask various questions about digital technology, learn about digital practice, learn to use the devices, etc.
This association also offers numerous training courses to train affected individuals through this digital divide and help them to regain confidence in digital processes.
Digital is becoming more and more embedded in our daily lives, so it is important to be aware of this digital divide to ensure that everyone is included.
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