Computers and internet essential to participation in society
Interesting findings from the Joseph Rowntree Fund about how computers and the internet are no longer seen as luxuries but are vital to working-age households for full participation in society. This is set in the context of the Minimum Income Standard which asks for public views on what is essential to everyday life for a ’socially acceptable’ standard of living. Read more on the article in the Guardian or the full report at JRF.
The findings made the BBC news yesterday and an interesting discussion on breakfast news. One commentator argued of the difference between ownership of a computer and access to the internet, keeping the two quite separate. However thier argument that the interent could be accessed at place like the library (or Destinations!!) was countered by the fact that not all sites can be accessed in public places. Many libraries done allow ebay / facebook / msn etc or limit the time allowed on the internet. Also fears over security issues in public access venues was raised.
All intersting stuff.
An interesting article, but I do wonder who who asked to complete the poll, and whether age had an influence on how necessary a home computer/Internet was seen to be.
I agree that there are several security issues when accessing the Internet on a public computer, personally I would not log on to any site that requires a password. On several occasions I have seen people go onto sites such as Facebook, and be presented with someone else’s profile. When purchases are required I would think lack of home Internet would be a large barrier to bargain hunting and there may be other information, such as health problems that people may not feel comfortable looking up in a public place.
I was recently in Bath, and had a nosey in the large Apple shop that they have there. I thought it was an interesting setup, as many people seemed to be using the shop as a way of accessing the Internet. There were many people on social networks lining the walls, and others there for training and advice.