According to a news release, the National Digital Equity Center (NDEC) wants to help close Maine’s digital divide. In an effort to do so, the center is offering eligible Mainers free tablets for a year.
In addition to the tablets, free one-on-one tutoring to help users connect to the internet, and interactive online classes will be available to folks who want them. Classes range in topics from devices, internet safety, and using Google-based tools.
According to their website, the National Digital Equity Center has an Affordable Equipment Program that provides no cost or low cost devices to Maine Residents 18 years of age and older who are of low to moderate income. The “Maine Digital Inclusion Initiative” program promotes and advocates for Digital Inclusion. Included is the expansion of digital literacy services to traditionally underserved populations to provide job training/employment-related education as well as technology training to older adults. The program has engaged and trained digital literacy instructors to provide computer skills/digital literacy instruction to adult learners throughout Maine.
Program participants receive personalized support along a scaffolded learning path that leads to life-long learning and the skills and resources to continue growth along their individual trajectories. They also experience far-reaching meaningful impacts through use of internet resources.
Some areas of impact are education, financial stability, improved health, reduced isolation and increased communication, improved access to information, and increased civic participation. In addition to gaining digital literacy, formerly socially isolated participants often develop relationships with other peers they can rely on for assistance. Among older adults, this reduces the occurrence of depression, and negative health affects over time.
Through digital literacy efforts, communities benefit from a more highly skilled workforce that help grow the local economy and perpetuate creation of economic opportunity. Innovation and technology throughout the state will be leveraged to significantly improve the lives of Mainers. The project is one of the first statewide Digital Inclusion programs in the country.
Visit the National Digital Equity Center’s website for more information and to request an Affordable Device. The website also has information about Affordable Broadband Internet