Advancing Digital Opportunity: A Higher Education Toolkit

Key Components of Digital Opportunity

This toolkit is designed to equip higher education institutions in Louisiana with a structured approach to implementing digital opportunity initiatives both on campus and in the surrounding communities. The toolkit covers key areas essential for closing the digital divide: access to robust and affordable internet, access to appropriate devices, opportunities to build digital skills, digital accessibility, and digital privacy and internet safety. These components are crucial for creating an inclusive educational environment and ensuring that all students, faculty, and staff can fully participate in the digital age.

Access to Robust and Affordable Internet: Reliable internet access is fundamental for online learning, using digital resources, and connecting with peers and instructors. Institutions can partner with internet service providers to offer discounted rates or distribute Wi-Fi hotspots, ensuring robust internet access on campus and at home. Additionally, outreach programs can inform students, staff, faculty, and community members about opportunities for free or affordable internet services.

Access to Appropriate Devices: Access to appropriate devices is essential for digital learning and academic work. Universities can establish device-lending programs through which students can borrow laptops, tablets, or other necessary technology. Additionally, initiatives to provide low-cost or subsidized devices to students in need can ensure that everyone has the equipment required to succeed. Ensuring all students have access to these devices helps prevent them from falling behind in their studies, thereby narrowing the digital divide.

Opportunity to Build Digital Skills: A variety of digital skills, ranging from foundational and basic skills to advanced and industry-specific or discipline-specific competencies, are needed for academic success, work, and everyday life. Workshops, courses, online resources, and digital navigation support can help students, faculty, staff, and community members improve their digital skills and build digital resilience across these different skill levels.

Digital Accessibility: Ensuring that digital resources and online learning platforms are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, is vital. Institutions can adopt universal design principles, create inclusive digital environments, and provide assistive technologies to support diverse needs. By prioritizing accessibility, universities can ensure that every member of the community can participate fully in the educational experience.

Digital Privacy and Internet Safety: Protecting personal information and staying safe online are essential for a secure and inclusive digital environment. Institutions can implement comprehensive digital privacy and internet safety policies, provide training on best practices, and offer resources to help everyone protect their data. Extending these efforts to surrounding communities equips them with the knowledge and tools needed to safeguard their personal information and navigate the internet safely.