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The digital gap is the difference in resources that gives some groups much greater access to technology and information. Many people do not have access to or training with computer technology. With almost 75 percent of all jobs requiring at least a basic knowledge of computer technology, it is imperative to help close this digital divide. For a statistics on technology access in various segments of society, visit: http://www.aurora.edu/digitalgap/profile.htm.
This website serves as a tool to provide information on where individuals can go to receive computer training and/or access. As well, organizations can register and have information posted their computer training and access facilities. This site also allows experienced volunteers to sign up to offer their services at the various locations posted.
Dr. John W. Gudenas, associate professor and division chair of the College of Arts, Science, and Business at Aurora University applied for a partnership grant in June of 2001 in effort to develop a program to raise awareness of the technological impact of the information age. In October 2001, his proposal was accepted and Aurora University was awarded a $10,000 grant from SBC Ameritech Awards for Independent Colleges. Under the direction of Dr. Gudenas, the Computer Science Program at Aurora University has developed new curriculum for computer science students and researched and developed this website to help in closing the digital gap.
In addition to hosting this site, curriculum has been developed and added to coursework for computer science students. The relation of science to society is an important aspect of the Aurora University Computer Science Capstone course. Curriculum demonstrates the relation of science to society and details this impact on society from a macro scale view to our individual community. Visit the Curriculum page at http://www.aurora.edu/digitalgap/curriculum.htm for more information. The Organizations page on this site lists several local agencies that provide technology training. If you know of or work for a similar facility, follow this link and fill out the form to have your organization included in the listing: http://www.aurora.edu/digitalgap/orgsubmit.htm. To volunteer your time to any of the agencies listed on this site, complete the form at the following link, and you will be contacted regarding your availability: http://www.aurora.edu/digitalgap/volunteering.htm. |