Monday, 19 January 2009
Collecting Information
I have seen that there are a number of methods available to collect data and uses as sources, including, surveys, sensors, internet and printed source. I think that surveys are a good method to use, as they can give you an overall idea of what people think about your question. However, I feel that it can be hard to generalise any results that you find which means that they are not representative of the population as a while. Also, in making your results more accurate using this method is costly and time consuming. Using sensors as a method of data collecting is a good method because it gives you accurate data, which is quantitative, this is because the answers are usually numbers, they are not options, this means that the data is easier to analyse. This is because they can be shown on graphs, plus these readings are accurate as they are measured by a computer and can be precise. The internet can be used as a source to collect information, this is because there are vast amount of data available including statistics, for example from The Office for National Statistics and The CIA Fact Book. The advantage of using this is your method to collect data is that it is already in a form that the computer can understand. However, it is relatively easy for anybody to created a website and add information to it. This data can sometimes not be true. This means that you have to make a judgement as to how much you can trust a source that is found on the internet. I feel that some sources can be trusted more than others, for example those produced by government agencies. You can also use the printed source as a method of collecting data. The advantage of using this method is that most of the information printed can be trusted as they are checked and edited, and you can use an index to find exactly the information you desire, instead of having to go through many web pages, which often does not contain relevant information. The method which I prefer to use is the printed word, this is because information can often be found easier and quicker as you are able to use index pages, and what the book says it is about if often what it is. For example the internet pages, do not always contain the information they say they do.
Friday, 16 January 2009
Discussion Point
What is the problem from the company’s point of view?
The problem from the company’s point of view is that it is now struggling and that it is running currently at an overall loss. This is because now total costs had exceeded revenue, this means that there was more money going out than there was going into the company.
What is the problem from Neil’s point of view?
The problem from Neil’s point of view is that his job may be on the line. This is because he knows that money has to be saved and already some members of staff are loosing their jobs and being made redundant. In addition, Neil has to decide which member of staff to loose their jobs because he had been given that task.
Is Jill’s reading of the situation correct?
Jill’s reading of the situation is correct because from the graph provided, I can see that salaries have increased the most and that costs excluding salaries have not increased much over the period. I feel that these costs will have grown inline with inflation. She if reading the situation correct, as these are the most expensive cost, as if the wage bill can be decreased, this will be advantageous to the company.
Is the plan of action Jill proposes likely to be successful?
Jill’s plan of action is likely to be successful because she will be cutting on the biggest costs that the company faces. However, cutting jobs mean that there will be less staff to carry out the necessary work, and it is unlikely that production will decrease. Also making staff redundant can be costly, and may ruin the company’s reputation. In addition, staff will be worried as they may loose their jobs.
Apart from a reduction in the wage bill what other effects could Jill’s plan of action have?
The other effect that Jill’s plan of action may have is that there will be less staff to carry out the necessary work, and it is unlikely that production will decrease. Also making staff redundant can be costly, and may ruin the company’s reputation. In addition, staff will be worried as they may loose their jobs, because of this some may decide to resign and find another job where there is increased job security. This many demotivate staff.
What other courses of action could be taken?
Other courses of action which could be taken included reducing the number of days the factory is open, for example just having a four day week, this will cut the wage bill and the variable costs. They could also try to increase production, this will mean that there will be more products to sell and this should not affect the fixed costs such as wage bill.
What are the likely effects of these courses of action?
The likely effects of the first course of action is that staff may be demotivated and look for alternative work, and the second will mean that there is more revenue coming into the business, hoping to reduce the gap, and make the company profitable.
The problem from the company’s point of view is that it is now struggling and that it is running currently at an overall loss. This is because now total costs had exceeded revenue, this means that there was more money going out than there was going into the company.
What is the problem from Neil’s point of view?
The problem from Neil’s point of view is that his job may be on the line. This is because he knows that money has to be saved and already some members of staff are loosing their jobs and being made redundant. In addition, Neil has to decide which member of staff to loose their jobs because he had been given that task.
Is Jill’s reading of the situation correct?
Jill’s reading of the situation is correct because from the graph provided, I can see that salaries have increased the most and that costs excluding salaries have not increased much over the period. I feel that these costs will have grown inline with inflation. She if reading the situation correct, as these are the most expensive cost, as if the wage bill can be decreased, this will be advantageous to the company.
Is the plan of action Jill proposes likely to be successful?
Jill’s plan of action is likely to be successful because she will be cutting on the biggest costs that the company faces. However, cutting jobs mean that there will be less staff to carry out the necessary work, and it is unlikely that production will decrease. Also making staff redundant can be costly, and may ruin the company’s reputation. In addition, staff will be worried as they may loose their jobs.
Apart from a reduction in the wage bill what other effects could Jill’s plan of action have?
The other effect that Jill’s plan of action may have is that there will be less staff to carry out the necessary work, and it is unlikely that production will decrease. Also making staff redundant can be costly, and may ruin the company’s reputation. In addition, staff will be worried as they may loose their jobs, because of this some may decide to resign and find another job where there is increased job security. This many demotivate staff.
What other courses of action could be taken?
Other courses of action which could be taken included reducing the number of days the factory is open, for example just having a four day week, this will cut the wage bill and the variable costs. They could also try to increase production, this will mean that there will be more products to sell and this should not affect the fixed costs such as wage bill.
What are the likely effects of these courses of action?
The likely effects of the first course of action is that staff may be demotivated and look for alternative work, and the second will mean that there is more revenue coming into the business, hoping to reduce the gap, and make the company profitable.
Fixed and Variable Costs
Fixed costs don’t change with output. Rent on a factory, business rates, manager’s salaries and the cost of new machinery are fixed costs. When output increase, a business makes more use of the facilities it’s got – the cost of those facilities does not change. Indirect costs can’t be directly linked to only one product or service.
Variable costs rise and fall as output changes. Hourly wages, raw materials and packaging costs for each product are variable costs. Direct costs are directly linked to a product or service.
Variable costs rise and fall as output changes. Hourly wages, raw materials and packaging costs for each product are variable costs. Direct costs are directly linked to a product or service.
Thursday, 30 October 2008
WLANs
I have researched the local community WLANs mentioned at www.wlan.org.uk:
These projects are mainly located in towns and cities where there are a number of people who wish to have internet access free or at a cost, or there is not a quality internet access. There are located over the world, mainly within the UK.
These projects have been created because there is not a good quality internet in the area i.e. Broadband, people want to share internet access with friends and neighbours, wish to provide free internet access, or provide access at a cost price.
These projects serve the local community, or people who visit the area, for example using laptops on the beach at Brighton and local businesses.
These projects have had an impact on the digital divide because they provide people with internet access who have a computer and have not thought of connecting to the internet, or has made people purchase a computer so that they can take advantage of the facilities.
These projects are mainly located in towns and cities where there are a number of people who wish to have internet access free or at a cost, or there is not a quality internet access. There are located over the world, mainly within the UK.
These projects have been created because there is not a good quality internet in the area i.e. Broadband, people want to share internet access with friends and neighbours, wish to provide free internet access, or provide access at a cost price.
These projects serve the local community, or people who visit the area, for example using laptops on the beach at Brighton and local businesses.
These projects have had an impact on the digital divide because they provide people with internet access who have a computer and have not thought of connecting to the internet, or has made people purchase a computer so that they can take advantage of the facilities.
ICT at my Library
The Gosport Discovery Centre
Community Use:
There are 40 People's Network computers for high speed access to the internet. It is safe and secure. You can send email and use software to make your own documents, presentations, spreadsheets and pictures. It's free to use.
You can choose a quick use computer for 30 minutes or a bookable computer for longer. We also have a colour laser printer and scanners which will enable you to print good quality images. Each computer also has software to help people with a visual or a hearing impairment.
You don't need to book, however to guarantee a session it is best to do so. You can book in person using one of the machines or by phone - tel 023 92523431 quoting your borrower number. You will need a library borrower card to make a booking.
Start using the InternetBeginners sessions are held monthly. Please telephone to book.
Reference Library Online We have free access to the latest and most up to date information available. All you need is your library card number.
ICT is used in the library for book issuing, this is because it is a quick and efficient method as all data is collected and collated by the computer is held in the database. They are able to see who has what books and when they are due back, they can see if a book is in stock and whereabouts it is located, they are also able to get books from other libraries for a small cost if you are an adult, which can be useful as it enables them to read and use books from other libraries within Hampshire and not just at your small local library. If the library did not use the computer it would not be as easy and would be more difficult. Also, the staff need limited IT skills to use the system, which is an advantage because not all have high level of IT competence, and some had never used a computer before.
Community Use:
There are 40 People's Network computers for high speed access to the internet. It is safe and secure. You can send email and use software to make your own documents, presentations, spreadsheets and pictures. It's free to use.
You can choose a quick use computer for 30 minutes or a bookable computer for longer. We also have a colour laser printer and scanners which will enable you to print good quality images. Each computer also has software to help people with a visual or a hearing impairment.
You don't need to book, however to guarantee a session it is best to do so. You can book in person using one of the machines or by phone - tel 023 92523431 quoting your borrower number. You will need a library borrower card to make a booking.
Start using the InternetBeginners sessions are held monthly. Please telephone to book.
Reference Library Online We have free access to the latest and most up to date information available. All you need is your library card number.
ICT is used in the library for book issuing, this is because it is a quick and efficient method as all data is collected and collated by the computer is held in the database. They are able to see who has what books and when they are due back, they can see if a book is in stock and whereabouts it is located, they are also able to get books from other libraries for a small cost if you are an adult, which can be useful as it enables them to read and use books from other libraries within Hampshire and not just at your small local library. If the library did not use the computer it would not be as easy and would be more difficult. Also, the staff need limited IT skills to use the system, which is an advantage because not all have high level of IT competence, and some had never used a computer before.
Local Community ICT Access
I have researched the provision of ICT in the community within my home town. The disadvantaged groups which could benefit the most from having access to digital technologies are the people who are unemployed, or are unable to afford a computer and access to the internet. The current impact on the digital divide in Gosport is that there are many people who have access to the internet and many who do not. The people who mainly have access to IT at home are people who have well paid jobs, own their own homes and are educated in IT, the people without IT access at home are people who are unemployed, the elderly and people who are uneducated/have a fear of using IT. The disadvantaged groups are served by these initiatives because there are a number of libraries in the town, which all have computers which can used for free which give the disadvantaged groups access to computers and the internet who may otherwise not use it. There are also a number of courses which are designed to give people the essential IT skills, for example at the Gosport Discovery Centre there are 40 People's Network computers for high speed access to the internet. Which are safe and secure. People can send email and use software to make their own documents, presentations, spreadsheets and pictures. This is free to use. There are also colour laser printers and scanners which enable people to print good quality images. In addition, there is software to help people with a visual or a hearing impairment. Plus, there are beginners sessions which are held monthly to teach people the basics in IT. There are also evening classes held at St. Vincent’s College, Bridgemary Community Sports College and Bay House School for basic and more adbanced computer skills and qualifications including Clait and ECDL, however, you have to pay for this.
Wednesday, 29 October 2008
Research Initiatives to Fund the Digital Divide
I have chosen to carry out some researh into UK Online project in depth.
I have made a presentation evaluating the project in terms of its potential to reduce the digital divide. Here is a summary:
Introduction
UK ONLINE is a major government project, started in 2001, to give computer access to people in the community and to help them learn new ICT skills.
There are now over 6000 UK Online Centres, located in libraries, schools and community centres.
What is its purpose?
To teach people essential ICT skills to save yourself time, hassle and money by getting them online.
UK online centres provide people with free or low-cost access to computers and the internet.
Together with help and advice on how to use them.
How it relates to the digital divide
UK online is reducing the digital divide by giving people the essential skills by getting them online, by giving then free or low-cost access to computers and the internet, with help and advice which is essential in making the digital divide, as more people will be online and taking advantage of this resource.
Who are its main target clients?
Its target clients are anyone who wishes to learn new IT skills and are willing to learn.
They can be almost anywhere within the UK as there are over 6000 centres all over the country.
The people do not have to be earning as it can you can get free access.
What are its strengths and weaknesses?
Its strengths are that there are over 6000 centres across the UK and that the service is free and that the site is very user friendly, which is essential as the site is designed for people with limited IT knowledge.
However, the weaknesses of the service are that people may loose/forget their IT skills if they do not continually use them.
What improvements could be made?
There could be more paper based information on this service, as I had not heard of the service, and as it is attracting people with no internet access or computer skills it cannot rely on the internet.
I have made a presentation evaluating the project in terms of its potential to reduce the digital divide. Here is a summary:
Introduction
UK ONLINE is a major government project, started in 2001, to give computer access to people in the community and to help them learn new ICT skills.
There are now over 6000 UK Online Centres, located in libraries, schools and community centres.
What is its purpose?
To teach people essential ICT skills to save yourself time, hassle and money by getting them online.
UK online centres provide people with free or low-cost access to computers and the internet.
Together with help and advice on how to use them.
How it relates to the digital divide
UK online is reducing the digital divide by giving people the essential skills by getting them online, by giving then free or low-cost access to computers and the internet, with help and advice which is essential in making the digital divide, as more people will be online and taking advantage of this resource.
Who are its main target clients?
Its target clients are anyone who wishes to learn new IT skills and are willing to learn.
They can be almost anywhere within the UK as there are over 6000 centres all over the country.
The people do not have to be earning as it can you can get free access.
What are its strengths and weaknesses?
Its strengths are that there are over 6000 centres across the UK and that the service is free and that the site is very user friendly, which is essential as the site is designed for people with limited IT knowledge.
However, the weaknesses of the service are that people may loose/forget their IT skills if they do not continually use them.
What improvements could be made?
There could be more paper based information on this service, as I had not heard of the service, and as it is attracting people with no internet access or computer skills it cannot rely on the internet.
Bridging the gap: examples of initiatives
UK Online
University for Industry
Learn Direct
British Educational Communication and Technology Association
Wired up Communities initiative
Newham
Computers within Reach
Spanning the digital divide – UK’s Get Started Campaign
Hertfordshire County Council
Internet Rangers
Kids key to closing the digital divide
UK Online Direct Support system
"...community broadband sector"
University for Industry
Learn Direct
British Educational Communication and Technology Association
Wired up Communities initiative
Newham
Computers within Reach
Spanning the digital divide – UK’s Get Started Campaign
Hertfordshire County Council
Internet Rangers
Kids key to closing the digital divide
UK Online Direct Support system
"...community broadband sector"
CASE STUDY – ICT and Pensioners in Rural England
I feel that digital technologies have made a genuine impact on the couple’s lives because they are now able to carry out a range of activities, much faster and easier with having access to a computer. For example they are able to keep in touch with friends and relatives at a low price, take digital photos, word process and shop online. In addition, they have been able to carry out research into their past and have made friends with people they went to school with, all of this would not have been as possible, as easily and at a low price if it was not for the computer and internet access.
Their lives would be poorer if they did not have access to ICT at home because they would not be able to take advantage of the services discussed above. For example, Clive would still be hand writing letters and having to photocopy letters for his committee; where has now he is able to work process them and keep multiple copies. It would be more difficult for them to keep in touch with friends and relatives, as it was cost more and not be as fast. They have been able to use there digital camera which is c heaper and easier to use than a traditional 35mm. in addition, they would not have been able to undertake research into their past, and find old friends, which has made their lives more interesting during their retirement.
The couple were able to afford their own computer. Access in the community centre three miles away would be useful to the couple because they would be able to learn new skills that they would not have learned otherwise both on the 10 week course and having access in general where they would be able to ask questions if they got into difficulty. By having access in the community, they would be able to talk to other people and hear their experience and pass their knowledge on to one other about sites or programmes that were particularly useful to them when carryout their day to day business and making their lives easier and more technology advance. However, if they had no pay for this access they may not use the facility as they already have access which they are paying for.
Their lives would be poorer if they did not have access to ICT at home because they would not be able to take advantage of the services discussed above. For example, Clive would still be hand writing letters and having to photocopy letters for his committee; where has now he is able to work process them and keep multiple copies. It would be more difficult for them to keep in touch with friends and relatives, as it was cost more and not be as fast. They have been able to use there digital camera which is c heaper and easier to use than a traditional 35mm. in addition, they would not have been able to undertake research into their past, and find old friends, which has made their lives more interesting during their retirement.
The couple were able to afford their own computer. Access in the community centre three miles away would be useful to the couple because they would be able to learn new skills that they would not have learned otherwise both on the 10 week course and having access in general where they would be able to ask questions if they got into difficulty. By having access in the community, they would be able to talk to other people and hear their experience and pass their knowledge on to one other about sites or programmes that were particularly useful to them when carryout their day to day business and making their lives easier and more technology advance. However, if they had no pay for this access they may not use the facility as they already have access which they are paying for.
Who studies computing subjects?
In the situation that I am studying there are two girls and eighteen boys studying computing subjects post-16 in my class of twenty pupils. This is similar to my GCSE class where there were two girls and six boys.
There is a significant difference between the two genders. Because of this I have chosen to investigate why this is the case. I think that it could be said that women choose different jobs to men, and these jobs do not require computer skills and so choose not study them. Also many may see computers very masculine, and may feel they are for males, and so choose to avoid them. In addition, if people do not have the need to use computers for non-work related use, i.e. playing games for keeping in touch they may choose not to study the subject.
I think that this has an impact on girls and society as a whole because there will be less females with advanced computer skills, and that as new technologies are invented and become more affordable, I believe that these IT skills will be invaluable, especially as now there are many people who are being left behind, and not keeping up with the latest technology.
There is a significant difference between the two genders. Because of this I have chosen to investigate why this is the case. I think that it could be said that women choose different jobs to men, and these jobs do not require computer skills and so choose not study them. Also many may see computers very masculine, and may feel they are for males, and so choose to avoid them. In addition, if people do not have the need to use computers for non-work related use, i.e. playing games for keeping in touch they may choose not to study the subject.
I think that this has an impact on girls and society as a whole because there will be less females with advanced computer skills, and that as new technologies are invented and become more affordable, I believe that these IT skills will be invaluable, especially as now there are many people who are being left behind, and not keeping up with the latest technology.
What is the impact of the internet access for the homeless?
Five ways in which access to the internet could change the life of a homeless person for the better include:
≈ Look for a job
≈ Find suitable accommodation
≈ Find out where free places to stay are located, including soup kitchens
≈ Keeping in touch with friends and family
≈ Take advantage of online learning
The impact of not having access to the internet has on that homeless person is that they are unable to communicate with friends and family and therefore loose touch, they are unable to look for a job without going to the job centre for example. Plus they could miss out on vital information for them, i.e. how they could earn grants or benefits and where they could stay for free or their local soup kitchen for food.
Five things that are more important to that person than the internet include:
≈ Shelter
≈ Food
≈ Clothing
≈ Security
≈ Companionship
≈ Look for a job
≈ Find suitable accommodation
≈ Find out where free places to stay are located, including soup kitchens
≈ Keeping in touch with friends and family
≈ Take advantage of online learning
The impact of not having access to the internet has on that homeless person is that they are unable to communicate with friends and family and therefore loose touch, they are unable to look for a job without going to the job centre for example. Plus they could miss out on vital information for them, i.e. how they could earn grants or benefits and where they could stay for free or their local soup kitchen for food.
Five things that are more important to that person than the internet include:
≈ Shelter
≈ Food
≈ Clothing
≈ Security
≈ Companionship
Conclusion
There is a clear digital divide between the developed and developing countries. It has been said by many world leaders that bridging this divide is one of the essential steps towards abolition of world poverty, and would be the precursor of great economic age. There is clearly some truth in this proposition but it should be treated with caution. For example, remember that half of the world’s population has never made a telephone call. 70% of the world’s poor live in remote, rural areas with almost no telecoms links to the outside world. There have been some innovative and political solutions to the problems causing, and caused by, the divide, but we are at the start of a very long process which is as much as socio-economics and political one as a technical one.
Friday, 24 October 2008
What did the World Summit Achieve?
I have studied the three reports on the World Summit and have come to the following conclusions.
The aim of the summit was to set ambitious goals to ensure that more than half of the world has access to some form of electronic media by 2015.
Three positive points that have come out of the summit are that delegates produced a statement of principles and an action plan intended to ensure that more than half the world has access to some form of electronic media by 2015. Plus there was a growing awareness of leaders of the political, economic and social impact of the internet and other communication technologies which was essential.
Three negative points that have come out of the summit are that people felt that words will not change things and that money and resources are really needed and that policy making was undermined by discussions on political issues.
To conclude, I think that this summit was successful because the world leaders were able to discuss the Information Age and they made some important decisions and set a deadline that half the world will have access to some sort of electronic media by 2015. However, I feel that we will have to wait until 2015 to see if the summit was successful, as we will see if the deadline was met, or how close we were to doing that.
The aim of the summit was to set ambitious goals to ensure that more than half of the world has access to some form of electronic media by 2015.
Three positive points that have come out of the summit are that delegates produced a statement of principles and an action plan intended to ensure that more than half the world has access to some form of electronic media by 2015. Plus there was a growing awareness of leaders of the political, economic and social impact of the internet and other communication technologies which was essential.
Three negative points that have come out of the summit are that people felt that words will not change things and that money and resources are really needed and that policy making was undermined by discussions on political issues.
To conclude, I think that this summit was successful because the world leaders were able to discuss the Information Age and they made some important decisions and set a deadline that half the world will have access to some sort of electronic media by 2015. However, I feel that we will have to wait until 2015 to see if the summit was successful, as we will see if the deadline was met, or how close we were to doing that.
Email in the Solomons
I have studied the news report on the creation of an internet link for the Solomon Islands on the BBC website. The extent of the divide in the Solomons Islands is that they are quite advanced because they have devised a number of solutions for their wish to communicate with the islands. The first is radio communications; however, this gave little privacy so they moved to satellite phone. This proved to be too costly for the majority, so it was decided that they would have a number of community centres which are owned by the community which contained a computer. This computer would then allow the people to email friends and family on neighbouring islands. Because of the success of this project they have decided to explore the possibilities of distance-learning and e-commerce, providing they can increase the bandwidth. The problems that have caused the divide are that the islands have endured years of bloodshed, corruption and economic decline. One further initiative that would be useful to the islanders in reducing the digital divide is that people could by second hand computers cheaply and then access a wireless signal emitted by these centres which would allow people to access the communications, distance learning and ecommerce.
Case Study - Laos
What is the extent of the digital divide in Laos?
The digital divide in Laos in huge, this is because there is thought to be less than 15000 computers.
Only 1% of the population have a fixed phone line
Literacy is low at 47%
Electricity is only available in a few urban areas
Lack of written information
What problems have caused the divide?
The mountainous geography
The weather with its monsoon rains
A lack of coordination among government agencies
Lack of IT standards to allow integration between systems
Lack of IT knowledge
Poor power and telecommunications infrastructure
Poor ISP service
High costs of ICT
Lack of language support
What is the impact of the divide on Laos?
Laos is one of the poorest countries in the world and has many people who are unable to read and write, or do not work and live in poverty.
Because they are not technically advanced or have the capabilities to the people are missing out are disadvantaged because of the divide.
This could be improved of the solutions were more wide spread.
What solutions have been provided so far?
Cantennae
Pedal powered wireless computer in Phon Kham
The Jhai Foundation PC and communication and internet learning centres
Educational, Social, Economic and Cultural Impacts of the Solutions
Many people world be able to take advantage of the facilities and then make economic use, communicate with friends and family, lean new skills and research their culture and other things which may I interest them, e.g. current affairs.
This would have both positive and negative impacts for the people of Laos
The digital divide in Laos in huge, this is because there is thought to be less than 15000 computers.
Only 1% of the population have a fixed phone line
Literacy is low at 47%
Electricity is only available in a few urban areas
Lack of written information
What problems have caused the divide?
The mountainous geography
The weather with its monsoon rains
A lack of coordination among government agencies
Lack of IT standards to allow integration between systems
Lack of IT knowledge
Poor power and telecommunications infrastructure
Poor ISP service
High costs of ICT
Lack of language support
What is the impact of the divide on Laos?
Laos is one of the poorest countries in the world and has many people who are unable to read and write, or do not work and live in poverty.
Because they are not technically advanced or have the capabilities to the people are missing out are disadvantaged because of the divide.
This could be improved of the solutions were more wide spread.
What solutions have been provided so far?
Cantennae
Pedal powered wireless computer in Phon Kham
The Jhai Foundation PC and communication and internet learning centres
Educational, Social, Economic and Cultural Impacts of the Solutions
Many people world be able to take advantage of the facilities and then make economic use, communicate with friends and family, lean new skills and research their culture and other things which may I interest them, e.g. current affairs.
This would have both positive and negative impacts for the people of Laos
Discussion – The Success of Wireless Technology
Wireless technology is a successful solution to the digital divide because it is an idea to overcome the lack of internet access. Because it allows a vehicle to be driven round a fixed route collecting and transmitting wirelessly to villages on a set path. This is done as the vehicle has a mobile access point. This allows people to upload and download from the internet.
Wireless technology overcomes the fact that communications and infrastructure have to be installed. This allows remote villages to have access to email, messaging, bulletin boards, video and audio broadcast, information collection and much more.
The growth in available wireless technology has a clear social, economic, educational and cultural benefits for the society involved because people are able to access the wealth of information available on the internet. For example people can communicate, be educated, buy and sell goods and learn and research about their history and find the latest information in the world.
Wireless technology overcomes the fact that communications and infrastructure have to be installed. This allows remote villages to have access to email, messaging, bulletin boards, video and audio broadcast, information collection and much more.
The growth in available wireless technology has a clear social, economic, educational and cultural benefits for the society involved because people are able to access the wealth of information available on the internet. For example people can communicate, be educated, buy and sell goods and learn and research about their history and find the latest information in the world.
Wednesday, 22 October 2008
Investigate changes in access
The ITU has also created an index to measure and monitor access to digital technologies over time.
I have chosen two of these case studies from its list of countries and have created a short presentation on how these countries’ access to digital technologies has changed over time.
I have chosen two of these case studies from its list of countries and have created a short presentation on how these countries’ access to digital technologies has changed over time.
Reducing the divide
▲ There are a number of advantages for the developed world in bridging the global digital divide, for example it is key to the development of the world and is essential to promote wealth in the global economy.
▲ There are a number of advantages for the poorest nations, for example it will allow them to take advantage and use the facilities that we use for granted, for example communication and ecommerce, it will allow them to become a larger player with the rest of the developed world and other developing countries.
▲ President Clinton was correct in saying that matching internet access levels with telephone levels will do as much as anything to reduce income quality because it will fight poverty as more people will be able to get work, and maybe use educational resources online and communicate.
▲ I think that charities such as Computer Aid do more good than harm because they provide only the highest-quality, professionally refurbished computers for reuse in education, health and not-for-profit organisations in developing countries. For example Computer Aid has shipped over 130,000 PCs to where they are most needed in more than 100 countries, making them the world's largest and most experienced ICT 4 Development provider. This means that they are helping people who would not usually use computers take advantage of this great resource and wealth of information.
▲ There are a number of advantages for the poorest nations, for example it will allow them to take advantage and use the facilities that we use for granted, for example communication and ecommerce, it will allow them to become a larger player with the rest of the developed world and other developing countries.
▲ President Clinton was correct in saying that matching internet access levels with telephone levels will do as much as anything to reduce income quality because it will fight poverty as more people will be able to get work, and maybe use educational resources online and communicate.
▲ I think that charities such as Computer Aid do more good than harm because they provide only the highest-quality, professionally refurbished computers for reuse in education, health and not-for-profit organisations in developing countries. For example Computer Aid has shipped over 130,000 PCs to where they are most needed in more than 100 countries, making them the world's largest and most experienced ICT 4 Development provider. This means that they are helping people who would not usually use computers take advantage of this great resource and wealth of information.
Monday, 20 October 2008
Investigate the impact of access to telecoms
Using the CIA World Factbook as my main source, I have compared the telecoms sectors of the Central African Republic, Costa Rica, Singapore, the UK and on other under-served country of my choice which is ? The following table shows my findings:
Data Response
I have read the article ‘Women and information technology in Sub-Saharan Africa’ by Dr Mayuri Odra-Syraub.
■ Dr Odedra cites a number of infrastructural reasons for the lack of effective ICT. For example, a reliable power supply to operate the computers, a well-functioning telephone network to transmit data, foreign currency to import the technology, and computer-literate personnel.
■ … is identified as the most pressing need for Africa in terms of ICT.
■ The computer-aid projects have been mostly unsuccessful.
■ They have failed because of the lack of secondary equipment, suitable electric power, or training.
■ A number of computer skills are identified as lacking, for example systems analysis, programming, maintenance and consulting, and at all operational levels from basic use to management.
■ Also the lack of business skills are identified as a major problem. These include the lack of long-term business plans in many organizations, business aptitudes and business practices.
■ Dr Odedra cites a number of infrastructural reasons for the lack of effective ICT. For example, a reliable power supply to operate the computers, a well-functioning telephone network to transmit data, foreign currency to import the technology, and computer-literate personnel.
■ … is identified as the most pressing need for Africa in terms of ICT.
■ The computer-aid projects have been mostly unsuccessful.
■ They have failed because of the lack of secondary equipment, suitable electric power, or training.
■ A number of computer skills are identified as lacking, for example systems analysis, programming, maintenance and consulting, and at all operational levels from basic use to management.
■ Also the lack of business skills are identified as a major problem. These include the lack of long-term business plans in many organizations, business aptitudes and business practices.
What leads to being on the wrong side of the divide?
The least digitally-developed countries according to the ITU are Guinea Biseau, Chad, Mali, Burkino Fasso, and Niger.
I have used an atlas and information from the ITU, Spectrum Online the World Bank and CIA Factbook, and have found a number of reasons why they might be on the wrong side of the digital divide.
Guinea Bissau
The Republic of Guinea-Bissau is a country in western Africa, and one of the smallest nations in continental Africa. It is bordered by Senegal to the north and Guinea to the south and east, with the Atlantic Ocean to its west. This country is likely to be on the wrong side of the divide, because it is a small African nation, and is one of the five poorest nations in the world, and depends mainly on farming and fishing. Because of this it is likely that there is not enough money to fund research or the purchasing of computer technologies, and that farming and fishing are manual jobs and can be hard to mechanise. Furthermore, it has a low electricity consumption of 55.8 million kWh and is not reliable and has a GDP of $343 million.
Chad
The Republic of Chad is a landlocked country in central Africa. It is bordered by Libya to the north, Sudan to the east, the Central African Republic to the south, Cameroon and Nigeria to the southwest, and Niger to the west. Chad is likely to be on the wrong side of the divide because of its distance from the sea which means it’s largely desert country, which means that the insulation of telecommunications if difficult. In addition, just a quarter of the population are educated (can read and write French or Arabic) which means that only this small minority are likely to be able to use a computer if they were given the opportunity, as you have to interact with it. It has a GDP of $7.095 billion, and has almost 50% working in industry and 20% in agriculture, however, is mostly manual work, as this method is cheaper than buying a computer which could cost six years worth of salaries.
I have used an atlas and information from the ITU, Spectrum Online the World Bank and CIA Factbook, and have found a number of reasons why they might be on the wrong side of the digital divide.
Guinea Bissau
The Republic of Guinea-Bissau is a country in western Africa, and one of the smallest nations in continental Africa. It is bordered by Senegal to the north and Guinea to the south and east, with the Atlantic Ocean to its west. This country is likely to be on the wrong side of the divide, because it is a small African nation, and is one of the five poorest nations in the world, and depends mainly on farming and fishing. Because of this it is likely that there is not enough money to fund research or the purchasing of computer technologies, and that farming and fishing are manual jobs and can be hard to mechanise. Furthermore, it has a low electricity consumption of 55.8 million kWh and is not reliable and has a GDP of $343 million.
Chad
The Republic of Chad is a landlocked country in central Africa. It is bordered by Libya to the north, Sudan to the east, the Central African Republic to the south, Cameroon and Nigeria to the southwest, and Niger to the west. Chad is likely to be on the wrong side of the divide because of its distance from the sea which means it’s largely desert country, which means that the insulation of telecommunications if difficult. In addition, just a quarter of the population are educated (can read and write French or Arabic) which means that only this small minority are likely to be able to use a computer if they were given the opportunity, as you have to interact with it. It has a GDP of $7.095 billion, and has almost 50% working in industry and 20% in agriculture, however, is mostly manual work, as this method is cheaper than buying a computer which could cost six years worth of salaries.
Mali
The Republic of Mali is a landlocked nation in Western Africa. Mali is the seventh largest country in Africa, bordering Algeria on the north, Niger on the east, Burkina Faso and the Côte d'Ivoire on the south, Guinea on the south-west, and Senegal and Mauritania on the west. Mali has a mixed climate as it is subtropical to arid and its terrain is mostly flat to rolling northern plains covered by sand; savanna in south and rugged hills in northeast which means that the installation of telecommunications is hard. Plus Mali is among the poorest countries in the world and with 65% of its land area desert it is not appealing to industry.
The Republic of Mali is a landlocked nation in Western Africa. Mali is the seventh largest country in Africa, bordering Algeria on the north, Niger on the east, Burkina Faso and the Côte d'Ivoire on the south, Guinea on the south-west, and Senegal and Mauritania on the west. Mali has a mixed climate as it is subtropical to arid and its terrain is mostly flat to rolling northern plains covered by sand; savanna in south and rugged hills in northeast which means that the installation of telecommunications is hard. Plus Mali is among the poorest countries in the world and with 65% of its land area desert it is not appealing to industry.
Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso is a landlocked nation in West Africa. It is surrounded by six countries: Mali to the north, Niger to the east, Benin to the south east, Togo and Ghana to the south, and Côte d'Ivoire to the south west. There have been a number of recent droughts and desertification which has severely affected agricultural activities, population distribution, and the economy. This has led to there not being excess in money to invest in new technologies, which has meant that they are on the wrong side of the divide.
Burkina Faso is a landlocked nation in West Africa. It is surrounded by six countries: Mali to the north, Niger to the east, Benin to the south east, Togo and Ghana to the south, and Côte d'Ivoire to the south west. There have been a number of recent droughts and desertification which has severely affected agricultural activities, population distribution, and the economy. This has led to there not being excess in money to invest in new technologies, which has meant that they are on the wrong side of the divide.
Niger
Niger is a landlocked country in Western Africa, named after the Niger River. It borders Nigeria and Benin to the south, Burkina Faso and Mali to the west, Algeria and Libya to the north and Chad to the east. Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranking near last on the United Nations Development Fund index of human development. As it is so poor the country has other things to develop before it even thinks about becoming more digitally advance, due to its poor wealth, it is on the wrong side of the digital divide.
Niger is a landlocked country in Western Africa, named after the Niger River. It borders Nigeria and Benin to the south, Burkina Faso and Mali to the west, Algeria and Libya to the north and Chad to the east. Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranking near last on the United Nations Development Fund index of human development. As it is so poor the country has other things to develop before it even thinks about becoming more digitally advance, due to its poor wealth, it is on the wrong side of the digital divide.
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