Listening and Learning: The Power of Focus Groups in Driving Digital Equity
Digitunity
Device ownership is key to digital equity. We're making computer ownership possible for everyone.
Earlier this month, we returned to Warren County to reconnect with participants from our previous focus group last spring. This follow-up was an opportunity to celebrate their progress and continue learning about the transformative impact of computer ownership and digital access on their lives.
During our last visit, 30 laptops were distributed through a collaboration with AT&T, the Mississippi Broadband Association, and Computers2Kids. These devices were paired with digital literacy training to empower residents with the skills needed to thrive in today’s connected world. Whether it was pursuing a GED or mentoring younger generations, these laptops opened up a world of opportunities.
Listening to Progress and Challenges
In this follow-up focus group, participants shared how having a computer has enhanced their lives: enabling telehealth appointments, attending online classes, helping children succeed in school, and securing scholarships. Yet, challenges like affordable internet access and digital skills gaps remain significant barriers – insights that help us collectively shape solutions.
Community-Led Vision for the Future
Participants voiced thoughtful suggestions, including expanded internet coverage, monthly digital skills training, and community-based tech support. One participant's comment confirmed the importance of incorporating resident voices into digital equity,
"We suggested you come back, and you did. You showed up."?
领英推荐
A Path Forward Through providing computer ownership opportunities, digital literacy training, and tailored support in partnership with AT&T and local organizations, rural and urban communities can achieve meaningful results through collaborative efforts. Our work in Warren County, in partnership with AT&T and local organizations, exemplifies how community collaboration can create meaningful change. It is possible to create lasting change, and help close the digital divide by providing opportunities to own a computer, digital literacy training, and tailored support. Strong communities are connected communities.
About Digitunity
Digitunity is a national nonprofit organization with a mission to make owning a computer possible for everyone. Engaged in advancing digital equity for nearly forty years, Digitunity generates and places donated computers with organizations serving people in need, supports a national practitioner network, and advises states, cities, and coalitions on strategies to meet the ongoing device needs of people impacted by the digital divide.