Which solution to the digital divide focuses on increasing affordability?

Which solution to the digital divide focuses on increasing affordability?

• A. Internet infrastructure development
• B. Increase affordability
• C. Address gender gap in internet access
• D. Improve relevance of online content

Answer: (B)

Reducing the cost to access the internet addresses a primary barrier in bridging the digital divide: affordability. When devices and data plans are expensive, low-income individuals, families, or students can’t participate online even if infrastructure exists. Increasing affordability directly lowers the price barrier through subsidies, affordable plans, or loaner devices, making it feasible for more people to connect. The other approaches tackle different aspects: building networks expands reach, but without affordable pricing the barrier remains; focusing on the gender gap targets equity across groups but not price; improving the relevance of content helps entice use, yet doesn't ensure people can afford access in the first place. Thus, the option that centers on affordability best matches the question.

Reducing the cost to access the internet addresses a primary barrier in bridging the digital divide: affordability. When devices and data plans are expensive, low-income individuals, families, or students can’t participate online even if infrastructure exists. Increasing affordability directly lowers the price barrier through subsidies, affordable plans, or loaner devices, making it feasible for more people to connect. The other approaches tackle different aspects: building networks expands reach, but without affordable pricing the barrier remains; focusing on the gender gap targets equity across groups but not price; improving the relevance of content helps entice use, yet doesn't ensure people can afford access in the first place. Thus, the option that centers on affordability best matches the question.