Week 9, What difference to all this might the 'digital divide' make?

The digital divide does play a major part with everyday subjects whether it be in the workplace or on a global scale but i dont see that it needs to necessarily cause much of a problem.

a) To socioeconomically related access issues within a society?

It is evident that people who are more computer literate are going to look the best on paper when it comes to applying for jobs. But does this mean they will be any good at the job as a whole? I know that when my dad started work at 18 all he had were his O-levels and at that time computers werent even an issue therefore he had no hands on experience. Whereas now he is able to complete spreadsheets, emails and do graphic desgins online everyday with his job. Many companies argue that it costs to much time and money to train people these days which people say they dont have much of. But if we are to try and close this digital divide, how will it be possible without the backing of companies which play the most important roles in the divide?

b) To global access issues across countries and regions?

Britain is one of the wealthiest countries along with America and Japan and therefore these countries can afford technology such as computers and mobile phones. Overall it makes relations between these countries better as it is easier to communicate with the technology we posess. But in parts of, for example, Africa dont even have enough money to feed and clothe themselves nevermind buy the latest mobile phone. Also with the language barrier I think this is possibly where the greatest digital divide comes into play. Hopefully in the future with funding places like this can get the technology they need to increase communication and put them on the map. I dont mean this in terms of geography but the fact that they could then get involved in world projects which would be the best thing for their economy. Can the internet really be called global when so many parts of the world don't have access to it??