The Essential Role of Digital Skills and Literacy in Bridging the Educational Divide

As the world becomes more digital, digital literacy and access to technology in education are crucial. Yet, for many children in the UK these benefits are still out of reach. In this article, Joel Tiller, Head of External Affairs at the Digital Poverty Alliance looks at the essential role of digital skills and literacy in bridging the educational divide

Approximately 20 percent of children are impacted by digital poverty – lacking access to an electronic device, broadband connectivity or the digital skills necessary to succeed in today’s educational environment. This issue demands urgent attention, as it not only hinders the educational progress of these children but also exacerbates social inequalities.

Digital Poverty: A Barrier to Accessible Education

According to recent findings from the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA), 86 percent of parents in families experiencing digital exclusion cite cost as the primary barrier preventing their children from accessing a laptop, a critical tool in modern education. This statistic highlights a deep-rooted issue: for many families, the choice between necessities and access to technology is an unavoidable reality. The cost-of-living crisis has only intensified this struggle, forcing more families to forego the digital tools that are increasingly essential for their children’s education.

The implications of this digital divide are severe. Our research showed for four- to sixteen-year-olds, nearly 80 percent of students require online access for homework at least once a week, and older students rely even more heavily on digital resources. Without a laptop or similar device, these children are placed at a considerable disadvantage, unable to keep pace with their peers who have the necessary tools. 88 percent of parents believe their children are substantially disadvantaged without a laptop, underscoring the critical role that technology plays in providing fair access to education.

This situation is not just a matter of inconvenience – it’s a crisis of opportunity. Children without access to digital tools are being deprived of the chance to fully engage with their education, limiting their future prospects and deepening the cycle of poverty.

The Pandemic’s Lasting Impact on Digital Literacy

The COVID-19 pandemic brought the issue of digital literacy to the forefront of educational discussions. With schools closed and millions of children forced to learn from home, the reliance on digital platforms for education became ubiquitous. However, this shift also highlighted the stark inequalities in access to technology. For the 14 per cent of young people who lack access to a learning device, and the nearly 570,000 who are without both a learning device and home internet connection, the pandemic exacerbated an already critical situation.

Moreover, the pandemic has fundamentally changed the way education is delivered. The integration of digital tools into the curriculum is likely to continue, making digital literacy an essential skill for all students. Yet, without addressing the barriers to access, we risk creating a two-tier education system – one where those with the resources to engage in digital learning at home thrive, while those without are left to fall further behind.

Equipping the Next Generation with Essential Digital Skills

Beyond access to devices and connectivity, there is a growing need to ensure that young people are equipped with the digital skills necessary to navigate the increasingly complex digital landscape. Research published by the Prince’s Trust this year reveals that over one in three young people are worried they do not have the digital skills to secure a good job.[1] This lack of confidence is particularly pronounced among those who already experience digital poverty, further limiting their opportunities in the job market.

The digital skills required today extend far beyond basic computer literacy – but our research shows that even basic skills such as connecting to WiFi or using search engines are lacking. In an era where artificial intelligence and advanced technologies are becoming commonplace, young people need to be proficient in a wide range of digital competencies – from conducting research online to understanding and applying AI-driven tools. Yet, the lack of access to digital resources means that many young people are not receiving the education they need to develop these skills.

The impact of this skills gap cannot be overstated. Without the necessary digital skills, young people will struggle to transition from education to the workforce, limiting their potential and exacerbating social inequalities. Addressing this issue requires a concerted effort to ensure that all students, regardless of their socio-economic background, have access to the digital tools and education they need to succeed.

The Urgent Need for Action

The challenge of digital poverty in the UK is not just an educational issue – it is a matter of social justice. Ensuring that every child has access to the digital tools and skills they need is essential for creating a fair and inclusive education system. The statistics are clear: digital access and literacy are fundamental to a child’s success in school and beyond.

To bridge the digital divide, we must address the barriers that prevent children from accessing the technology they need. This includes tackling the cost of devices and broadband, as well as providing the necessary support to develop digital skills. Only by doing so can we ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed in an increasingly digital world. This is why we believe every child needs access to a laptop, that digital and media literacy must be built into the curriculum, and that schools should be supported to check on connectivity at home.  The time for action is now – because in today’s society, digital literacy is not just a skill; it’s a lifeline.