Tech Teacher

Author/Source: National Digital Inclusion Alliance See the full link here

Takeaway

This article explains why states need to set aside money from a big federal internet program for things other than just building internet lines. You will learn about how important these funds are for helping people actually use the internet, not just have it available.

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Technical Subject Understandability

Intermediate

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Analogy/Comparison

It’s like building a new highway, but also making sure people have cars and know how to drive them so they can actually use the road.

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Why It Matters

Tens of billions of dollars are being spent to bring high-speed internet to everyone. This article highlights that money for “non-deployment” activities, like training people to use computers or providing devices, is essential. Without it, many people, especially those who struggle with technology, might still be left behind even if internet lines are installed in their area, because they lack the skills or equipment to get online.

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Related Terms

BEAD Program, Digital inclusion activities, Non-deployment funding, Initial Proposal Volume 2. Jargon Conversion: The BEAD Program is a big government project giving money to states to connect people to fast internet. Digital inclusion activities are programs that help people learn how to use the internet, get devices like computers, and get help when they have tech problems. Non-deployment funding is money used for things other than building internet lines, like teaching people how to use the internet or providing them with computers. Initial Proposal Volume 2 is a plan states write explaining how they will spend the BEAD money to help people use the internet.