Digital Inequity in a Rural Broadband Desert: A Qualitative Single Case Study Examining the Barriers and Facilitators to Teaching and Learning for Elementary Teachers and Parents

• In Event: AERA Graduate Student Research-in-Progress Roundtable Session 2
  In Roundtable Session: Barriers to Equitable Access: Broadband Connectivity, Tutoring Resources, and School Finance (Table 12)

Abstract

This study addresses the digital inequity in a rural broadband desert caused by the lack of reliable broadband. The study examines this problem by reviewing the first-order and second-order barriers teachers and parents encounter with homework and remote teaching and learning. The findings will be helpful to teachers and parents in understanding the needs of students without reliable broadband and what facilitators can be used. Additionally, the findings will provide policymakers with a rationale for expanding funding for broadband projects in rural areas. Keywords: Digital Inequity, First-order Barriers, Second-order Barriers, Rural, Broadband

Author

• Carolyn Price, Baylor University