Impact and benefits of digital inclusion for social housing residents

Abstract

This paper explores the impact and benefits that Internet access has provided for residents of a social housing estate focusing on: education and training, community and culture, citizenship and democracy, health and well-being, economic equity and opportunity, and information and communication. The majority of survey respondents indicated first-time use of computer representing a significant outcome in bridging the digital divide, with initial usage patterns centered on email, news and information services, and entertainment. The research reveals the impact on resident behavior and capability: ability to do their job, employment search, ability to learn new things, to communicate with friends and family, and on pursuing hobbies and interests. These results reveal considerable success in improving information and communication technology access and intensity, while usage patterns reveal improvement in both the social and economic dimensions of residents’ lives. These short-term outcomes are indicative of potentially larger and more significant long-term impacts and benefits. Digital divide policies that focus on the most disadvantaged in our community should be applauded and deserve the full attention of government to ensure its ongoing implementation in other communities. This policy is now inextricably connected to the broader social goal of building social capital and a socially inclusive society.

Keywords:

• community organizing
• grassroots development
• information technology
• marginalized communities

Acknowledgment

This research was funded by Community ICT, DPCD, Victorian Government, Australia.