January 25, 2021
UW researchers work to bridge the digital divide in Tacoma
Throughout the ongoing pandemic, internet access has proved a valuable educational tool. However, there exists a substantial gap between those with and without internet access.
In light of this digital divide, Jason Young and his research team at the UW Information School – as well as collaborators at the UW Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering and the Urban Studies program at UW Tacoma – are collaborating with the Tacoma Cooperative Network and Tacoma Public Libraries to provide affordable, public internet access to marginalized communities in Tacoma. This initial project will enable the researchers to test new technologies and learn how to provide cost-effective internet access.
The researchers’ efforts have been supported through a $90,000 grant from the Public Interest Technology University Network (PIT-UN). Through this pilot project, the researchers hope to expand their findings to other settings and work toward digital equity.