Tech Teacher

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

Takeaway

This article talks about a government program called BEAD that helps bring internet to more people. It explains why states need to use some of this money to help people learn how to use the internet and get devices, not just build new internet lines.

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Technical Subject Understandability

Intermediate

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Analogy/Comparison

Getting internet lines to every house is like building a highway. Non-deployment funding is like making sure everyone has a car, gas, and knows how to drive so they can actually use that highway.

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Why It Matters

It’s important because even if fast internet is available, many people still can’t use it if they don’t have a computer, know how to use it, or can’t afford it. The article mentions that states could use up to $2.1 billion from the BEAD program to help people get devices, learn computer skills, and get support, but many states are not planning to use enough of this money.

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Related Terms

Jargon Conversion: BEAD: This is a government program called Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment. It provides money to help get more people connected to the internet. Non-deployment funding: This is money used for things other than building new internet lines, like helping people get affordable devices, learn computer skills, or get technical support to use the internet. Digital inclusion: This means making sure everyone has fair access to and can use affordable, reliable internet, devices, and training, so they can participate in online life. Initial Proposals: These are plans that each state has to submit explaining how they will spend their share of the BEAD money.