Computer Access in the Home

Access to technology is crucial for much out-of-school learning. While there are public access points for technology in after-school programs, libraries, and other public spaces, computer access at home allows a degree of flexibility and autonomy difficult to replicate elsewhere. Census data show that while progress has been made providing [Page 120]computer and Internet access to low-income and minority households, access remains uneven. This entry discusses data on computer ownership and Internet access at home, the social and contextual factors that lead to differences in home computer access, and the relationship of home computer access to academic outcomes.

The degree of home access to computers by diverse demographic groups has been well documented in the United States through reports issued by the National Telecommunications and Information ...