The expressed desire, then, is to make technology available to all students, not just those in city or private schools. There's a problem, however, if we expect technology tools alone to erase deeper fundamental issues. If you arm every child in every classroom in America with a computer and an Internet connection, they still won't be on an equal playing field. Because before children can use computers, they must first learn how to read. Teach them to read, then they will have opportunities.
People often overlook the simple concept that the Internet is a reading medium.
Forty-four million Americans are functionally illiterate. This number translates to 22 percent of our population. Illiteracy is a very real problem and it's one that must be addressed if we are to move forward and focus on the future. Ensuring that children learn how to read is the number one way we can fix our educational system, which in turn, will narrow the digital divide and advance scientific study to fuel innovation. Ending illiteracy will be a time-intensive project, however, requiring patience, awareness, and involvement.