Disparities in access to educational technology and its impact on performance across socio-economic and racial groups in U.S. public schools
1 Department of Mathematical Sciences, Ball State University, Indiana, USA.
2 Department of English, University of Ghana, Ghana.
3 Department of Sociology, University of Ghana, Ghana.
Review
International Journal of Frontline Research in Multidisciplinary Studies, 2025, 05(02), 001-006.
Article DOI: 10.56355/ijfrms.2025.5.2.0021
Publication history:
Received on 23 December 2024; revised on 31 March 2025; accepted on 02 April 2025
Abstract:
This study explores the disparities in access to educational technology and their impact on academic performance across different socio-economic and racial groups in U.S. public schools. The digital divide, which refers to the gap between those who have access to modern information and communication technology (ICT) and those who do not, remains a significant barrier to equitable educational opportunities. This research examines how socio-economic factors, such as household income, geographic location, and racial background, influence students' access to essential digital tools, including devices, broadband, and digital literacy training. Drawing on existing literature, and recent surveys, this study identifies the ways in which unequal access to technology exacerbates educational inequalities. The findings suggest that students from low-income and minority backgrounds are disproportionately affected by these disparities, resulting in lower academic performance, reduced engagement, and diminished college readiness. Policy interventions, such as the expansion of broadband access, targeted funding for schools, and integration of digital literacy into curricula, are proposed to mitigate these challenges and foster more inclusive learning environments. The study calls for systemic reforms to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all students have equal access to the tools and resources needed for academic success in the digital era.
Keywords:
Digital divide; Student performance; Internet and computer devices; Racial group; Socio-Economic
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Copyright © 2025 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0