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The rise of industry 4.0 has led to the implementation of new technology-based manufacturing standards (TMSs). This study proposes a new contract to support a manufacturer, Haier, in diffusing its home-country TMSs into host countries with technology gaps. The manufacturer conducts the diffusion by operating two-sided networks (i.e. consumer and supplier networks) and dual sourcing (i.e. placing orders from two suppliers in different countries). A procurement contract is designed to coordinate the two-sided networks; it defines a market-pricing and part-procurement problem to maximise the scale of customers and local suppliers, respectively. These suppliers decide whether to accept the contract after considering their production conditions and technology gaps. A part-supply contract is executed if the procurement contract is accepted. Surplus parts are procured from the manufacturer's home country if the local supply is insufficient. The coupling of procurement and supply contract (PSC) design is inherent, while a hierarchical collaborative optimisation (HCO) model based on Stackelberg game theory is formulated. The HCO model deploys a multi-objective bi-level programming decision structure to examine the PSC coupling. A nested non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II is designed to address this HCO model, while a case study of refrigerator TMS diffusion is analysed for verification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper details the 'Deadly Gaming' pilot (DG). DG centred research has been designed to exploit the protective value of Indigenous culture, to nurture translational literacies (e.g., cultural capital, academic confidence, teamwork, problem solving, critical thinking, and 21st century skills) necessary for academic success in an urban Australian school. Underpinning this pilot was the research question, 'how does the use of curriculum aligned digital gaming impact on Indigenous engagement and performance in a non-conventional school-based learning space'? DG operated across three phases:(1) development of a culturally responsive digital gaming curriculum, (2) implementation of this curriculum across a mixed age (e.g., P-Year 6) Indigenous only cohort, and (3) evaluation of the efficacy of digital gaming as a culturally responsive learning tool. In phase three, the research team aligned case study methodology with aspects of action research and in-class portfolio assessment to appraise student and teacher attitudes across the implementation phase. The evaluation revealed the significance of culturally responsive digital gaming as a motivation and engagement tool for learners across our cohort. Our findings highlight the broader role 21st century technologies (i.e., digital gaming), and culturally responsive pedagogy can play in addressing the embedded sociocultural challenges that Indigenous learners continue to face in school. Future educational design might explore methods to integrate digital gaming as a tool to build translational literacies for learners who struggle in mainstream learning contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines whether the quality-certification system might benefit developing economies while there is a widespread conjecture that the system might negatively affect technologically less developed economies. Based on a simple oligopoly model where a developing economy trades with an advanced economy that produces higher quality products, we demonstrate that the introduction of a quality certification system between technologically asymmetric countries might deteriorate the trade balance of the developing economy with the widened technology gap. In addition, we demonstrate that the empirical evidence from the Chinese experience of introducing a quality certification system for imported products from the EU supports the theoretical findings. That is, the imports from the EU to China have significantly increased with the increased quality gap after China introduced the quality certification system. The results implicate that the quality certification system might damage less developed economies when advanced economies hesitate technology transfer, and therefore, it is increasingly imperative to introduce an international coordination mechanism for active technology transfer when quality certification systems are introduced with respect to developing economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital skills are critical for promoting gender equality, economic empowerment, and bridging the digital divide. This paper presents stylized facts on the gender gap in digital literacy for a total of 35,661 individuals ranging from pupils to adults using data from the German National Educational Panel Study (NEPS). We detect no gender gap in digital competences between boys and girls in lower secondary education, but the emergence of a gender gap from upper secondary education onwards. We also document that teenagers' access to digital devices is associated with higher digital skills – and sharing a computer with other household members is less detrimental for female than for male teenagers. For adults, we show that studying or working in a STEM-related field is positively associated with a female respondent's digital competences. This could be either due to digital literacy driving selection into STEM, or the effects of studying or working in STEM on digital competences. While we can identify several risk factors leading to lower digital competences, a decomposition exercise reveals that composition effects are unlikely to explain our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The digital divide among senior citizens is a significant challenge in the information era, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when elderly individuals' difficulties with technology negatively impacted their quality of life. This paper analyzes the digital divide by breaking it down into three aspects: ownership, competence, and learning. Using a novel and representative dataset from Shanghai, the study highlights a significant digital divide among the elderly, characterized by lower device ownership, limited digital competence, and restricted learning channels, despite many seniors showing interest in digital skills. This divide is exacerbated by internal disparities tied to age, education, and family support. It highlights the need for targeted policies to enhance digital inclusion for the aging population. Overall, this research contributes conceptual innovation to enhance our understanding of the digital divide and addresses the challenges faced by the 'digitally forgotten' in China. Given China's blend of technological advancement and demographic shifts, the findings of this research have broader implications for global efforts to navigate the complexities of digital transformation in aging societies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractDespite the growing body of research examining the impact of Internet use on the well-being of older adults, few studies have specifically examined the factors that contribute to variations across countries. Using resources and appropriation theory, this meta-analysis explores how and why the impacts of Internet use on older adults’ well-being differ across nations. By synthesizing 207 effect sizes from 49 studies in 26 countries, this research confirms the positive influence of Internet use on older adults’ well-being. The findings indicate that communication use has the most significant effect on well-being and that eudaimonic well-being shows the greatest improvement. Additionally, economic and cultural disparities among nations significantly shape the well-being benefits derived from Internet use among older adults. This study provides valuable insights into global variations in the impact of Internet use on older adults’ well-being and offers crucial implications for improving their overall well-being and addressing prevailing digital divides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widening digital divide, along with its potential to exacerbate subjective relative deprivation (SRD), poses a substantial barrier to social development. Utilizing the ‘Access Gap-Usage Gap-Utility Gap’ assessment framework and CFPS2016–2018 panel data, this paper examines the impact of the digital divide at three levels on Chinese residents’ SRD. Key findings are as follows: First, the access gap demonstrates no significant impact on the SRD among Chinese residents. Second, both the usage gap and utility gap exert a positive impact on residents’ SRD, indicating lower frequency and perceived importance of Internet use amplify the SRD. Third, both the usage gap and utility gap amplify residents’ SRD by diminishing social networks and social trust. This paper is the first to empirically explore the impact of the three levels of the digital divide on SRD among Chinese residents, offering theoretical insights for understanding the digital divide and for alleviating residents’ SRD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multidimensional capital is crucial for improving the quality of life of older adults. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between Internet use and the multidimensional capital among older adults in China. We also examined whether rural-urban status moderates this relationship. A total of 8,038 older adults (Mage = 71.06, SDage = 7.17) were included in this study, including 3937 (48.98%) urban and 4,101 (51.02%) rural samples. Using the ordinary least square (OLS) model and propensity score matching (PSM) methods with the 2018 wave of the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS), our results showed that the digital divide and multidimensional capital inequality existed between rural and urban older adults. The digital divide may further accelerate the rural-urban multidimensional capital inequality. Rural-urban status moderated the relationship between Internet use and multidimensional capital among older adults. To narrow the digital divide and further reduce the multidimensional capital inequality among older adults, strategies could be considered by promoting Internet popularization, providing convenient Internet access, and conducting fraud prevention education for older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper tries to empirically calculate the coupling and coordinate degree between digital economy and green economy by utilizing the data for 28 Chinese provinces from 2015 to 2020 via coupling coordination model. Specifically, we measure the development level of digital economy and green economy by utilizing the entropy weight method, which supports that while the digital economy and green economy increases quickly among all sample provinces, there exists problem of digital divide among different regions and the speed of digital economy is higher than that of green economy. Additionally, we calculated the degree of coupling and coordination between digital economy and green economy, which suggests that coordination and coupling between digital economy and green economy experiences sharp increase. Finally, we also investigated the regional heterogeneity for the coupling and coordination between such two factors and offered that while the absolute level of coupling and coordination between digital economy and green economy in western and eastern regions is lower than that in eastern regions, its growth rate is higher in western and eastern regions than that in eastern regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The availability of data and AI-based applications has increased in recent years, but the people with the skills to use these technologies remain limited. To fill this gap, several Latin American universities and training centres have expanded their academic offerings on data and AI in recent years. Based on a bibliometric analysis, a hundred in-depth interviews with experts from Ecuador, Chile, and Mexico, and an extensive documentary analysis of academic programmes and public policy initiatives in these countries, this paper aims to identify and characterize the capability building processes in Latin America. Our results show the growing asymmetries in the production and distribution of knowledge and know-how on big data and artificial intelligence in the world and in the region. These emerging asymmetries are leading to a steady transfer of resources and professionals trained by Latin American public institutions to national and transnational private companies, updating old structures of dependency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this viewpoint, we review our PARqueologia Migrante project, a collaborative virtual Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) that was developed by five Latina (im)migrants in Baltimore. Virtual spaces are crucial for collaboration during times of crisis, even if recent immigrant communities cannot always access them easily. Furthermore, young people must play a vital role in deciding the conditions under which access to the virtual world should (or should not) occur. We have identified three key themes that influenced the relationship between access and collaboration in our YPAR, namely: the digital divide as it affects Latina youth, youth disconnections from virtual research, and bridging between the home and the virtual space. We offer insights for adult researchers seeking to collaborate with youth across different geographies and create community in virtual spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amid global attention on the growth of China's e-commerce economy, prior research has focused more on demonstrating the digital dividends created by this new economy than on addressing the social inequalities that arise. One presumption in particular is that e-commerce economy will leverage the deterritorializing effects of digital technologies to create more equal opportunities for consumers in remote areas. Based on fieldwork with e-traders in Yiwu City, Zhejiang Province, and customers from a rural county of Tibet, this article argues that while e-commerce economy has eliminated trade barriers to a certain extent, it has also drawn new geographic boundaries and engendered new social divides in China. By exploring the e-traders' hierarchal conception of baoyouguo (literally, "the free-shipping kingdom") and their subsequent differentiated treatments of customers from different regions, this study illuminates China's emerging e-commerce geography and its consequences in the Internet age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores how international organizations (IOs) identify similar problems while endorsing different strategies. It examines how IOs address a fair and accessible digital education environment that reduces the digital divide. Using mixed methods, the article analyzes documents from 22 IOs. The quantitative analysis reveals the diverse concepts associated with digitalization. A qualitative content analysis delves into the strategies employed by four distinct cases of IOs – African Union, EU, OECD, and UNESCO. The article argues that while many IOs address digitalization in education as a global standard, their institutional characteristics shape their policy recommendations on the issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital literacy development begins in early childhood and contributes to a widening digital divide. The present study examines the complex interplay between family socioeconomic status (SES), home digital resources (HDR), parental mediation (PM), and early digital literacy development in young children. A survey titled Home Digital Practice Survey (HDPS) was responded to by 1,876 Chinese parents of preschoolers (Mage = 4.28 years, SD = 0.98, 48.8% girls). Results, derived from both correlation analysis and structural equation modeling, established that (1) there was a significant correlation between family SES and early digital literacy in children (β =.102, p <.01), and (2) HDR (β = 0.285, p <.001) and PM (β = 0.290, p <.001) served as simultaneous mediators linking family SES and early digital literacy. The findings are discussed as relevant to minimizing the digital divide and enhancing children's digital literacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explore approaches, challenges, solutions, and recommendations offered by child welfare workers in Canada on remote communication with children/youth regarding safety and on managing parent–child access during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thirty-seven child welfare workers and foster care providers participated in this survey. About 94% of the workers used virtual video communication alongside other modalities. Privacy concerns were common in children and youth contacts. Visitation scheduling challenges, digital inequality, and fear of contagion were commonly encountered by foster care providers. Regular virtual check-ins by child welfare workers, training on use of online meeting tools, and subsidizing technological costs were notable recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This qualitative research delves into the intricate transitional experiences of Vietnamese students during their first year in higher education (HE). Grounded in the dynamically shifting socio-cultural landscape of Vietnam, the study captures the narratives of 15 students, emphasising the unique challenges faced by those from the Mekong Delta region. Utilising a robust analytical blend of sociocultural theory, transition theory, and constructivist grounded theory, the research surfaces seven poignant themes. These are: (1) 'Cultural Dislocation', capturing the tension between traditional values and modern, global influences; (2) the 'Struggle with Academic Independence' highlighting the challenges of autonomous learning; (3) the intricacies of navigating 'Interpersonal Dynamics in Diversity' in a multicultural academic environment; (4) the evident 'Digital Divide' accentuating the disparities in technological access and proficiency; (5) the delicate act of 'Balancing Commitments' between academic pursuits and deeply rooted familial responsibilities; and (6) the profound 'Quest for Autonomy and Identity Formation', signifying the transformative nature of HE as a space for profound self-discovery and personal growth. While offering specific insights into the Vietnamese context, the study resonates with global academic transitions, underscoring the urgent need for holistic educational approaches that address the diverse challenges and aspirations of contemporary students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban big-system library systems have undergone seismic change over the past 20 years, becoming community centers in addition to repositories of information. As a result, contemporary library staff are facing new needs and challenges that their predecessors did not. This article explores different ways in which library leaders can hire, train, and support staff to successfully serve their communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a global shift to remote learning and at the same time presented challenges to implementing this form of learning. However, not many studies have been conducted on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on students from racially diverse backgrounds in remote learning. To extend our understanding of this topic, this qualitative study explored the impact of this pandemic on the learning engagement, perceived by racially diverse students in remote learning. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 40 undergraduate students from a university in Northeastern United States, analysed following an inductive analysis approach, and interpreted through the lens of Self-Determination Theory. Findings indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic impacted diverse students regarding psychological and emotional stress. Also, insufficient support in remote learning engagement, lack of digital and technical resources and a digital divide were identified as challenges that emerged during the pandemic remote learning period. However, the use of digital social media tools helped students navigate through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic to promote their learning engagement in remote learning. The results suggest that higher education institutions should develop instructional resources that can effectively facilitate teaching and learning to enhance students’ learning engagement during disasters and emergency periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the impact of smart city on technological innovation and the underlying mechanism. Based on county-level panel data in China from 2005 to 2020, we use the 'smart city' construction as a quasi-natural experiment to identify its impact on technological innovation. Our findings show that: (1) Smart city construction significantly promotes technological innovation. (2) Smart cities indirectly promote technological innovation through technology resource allocation, industry agglomeration effects, and entrepreneurial spirit. (3) Due to 'digital divide', the innovation effects of smart cities are more pronounced in eastern regions and cities with high levels of digital infrastructure and information technology talent endowment. (4) The 'smart city' pilots generate spatial spillover effects, which enhance the technological innovation level of neighbouring cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing call for research into how digital technology usage during childhood contributes to shaping contemporary digital divides. To our knowledge, the current study is the first to examine ways of maximising children's chances of developing modes of use that involve greater engagement with more advanced and creative digital activities. Drawing on our prior research identifying four distinct modes of using digital technologies in 8-year-old New Zealand children (Creative, Entertainment, Emergent and Limited), we used hierarchical logistic regression in a large sample (N = 3325) to explore the predictors of these modes of use. Several modifiable screen parenting practices associated with modes of use were identified. Collectively, these results indicate that parents can facilitate more constructive digital technology use by fostering active engagement with screens from an early age, discouraging passive screen time and environmental TV exposure, providing access to laptops or computers, implementing software controls judiciously and adhering to social media age restrictions. Socioeconomic status influenced all four modes of use, highlighting the persistence of first-order digital divides. Together our findings offer insights into how parents can support their children to develop more effective digital skills, which may go some way towards mitigating the impact of digital divides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The expansion of internet is likely to influence adolescents' academic outcomes. Yet, how internet coverage impacts students' educational performance remains poorly understood. To address this major knowledge gap, this study uses a quasi-experimental approach with Norwegian data to causally examine how the gradual introduction of home broadband internet across municipalities impacted the academic outcomes of lower-secondary school graduates (N = 103,796). Analyses apply sibling fixed-effects models with micro-level registry data from adolescents aged 15–16, and compare differences in effects by gender, social background, migrant status, and academic achievement levels. Findings show that the introduction of broadband internet across municipalities brought moderate grade improvements concentrated among boys in the subject areas of Mathematics, Arts and Crafts, Social Sciences, and Norwegian. The positive effect of broadband internet coverage on academic performance was three times larger for boys than for girls. For boys, broadband internet coverage led to strong grade improvements among the lower-achieving and socioeconomically disadvantaged, and to moderate grade benefits among those of Norwegian background, while boys from higher-achieving and socioeconomically privileged groups reduced their grades moderately. By contrast, for girls, broadband internet coverage worsened substantially the academic performance of those from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds, whereas girls of migrant background obtained higher grades with this expansion of internet. The study findings reveal how the growth of internet coverage impacts adolescent educational performance, but differently across groups, showing a complex intersection across gender, social background, migrant status, and academic achievement levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable innovation necessitates thriving in the digital age’s competitive market and ensure an institution’s continued existence. This study aimed to explore educational innovative approaches adopted during COVID-19 in understanding how the future of education aiming for sustainable administration and educational practices. Using phenomenological design and Technological Acceptance Model, we conducted semi-structured interviews with nine participants recruited through criterion sampling. Five interconnected themes emerged after data analysis (1) leadership during challenges, (2) reaching out to students, (3) remote task management, (4) virtual monitoring and (5) digital divide and access to education. The major findings revealed that the Kashmir region encountered a distinct and challenging virtual space, marked by limited access to digital resources, a lack of preparedness and a stressful atmosphere due to the prolonged closure of schools. The results however, revealed that educational innovations catalyzed and mitigated the distinct challenges of educational institutions. The findings of the study can help policymakers design frameworks prioritizing digital equity, professional development for school leaders, and flexible virtual learning spaces in future crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the critical factors influencing E-learning satisfaction in digital education environments in Punjab, Pakistan, a region marked by significant disparities in educational accessibility. E-learning has emerged as a crucial tool for addressing educational gaps, particularly in areas with limited traditional infrastructure. A survey of 250 students across primary, secondary, and tertiary education levels from urban and rural areas, both public and private institutions, this research provides a comprehensive analysis of diverse E-learning experiences. The study employs a conceptual framework encompassing six dimensions: student characteristics, instructor behaviors, course content, technology use, design quality, and environmental influences. Using detailed statistical analysis through SPSS, key determinants of E-learning satisfaction were identified, with instructor responsiveness, course flexibility, and technological usability emerging as the most significant factors. Interestingly, student computer anxiety was found not to significantly affect satisfaction, indicating growing digital literacy among learners. The study also highlights disparities in technology integration based on gender, geographical location, and type of institution, emphasizing the need for tailored educational strategies. This research provides actionable insights for policymakers and educational institutions to enhance E-learning systems, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of students and contribute to reducing the digital divide in Punjab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's digitized society of ever-increasing information sharing, Online Privacy Literacy (OPL) is not only important to feel safe but be safe as well. OPL refers to skills and knowledge of individuals that helps to protect their privacy online. OPL is crucial in the digital era, where extensive data collection poses privacy challenges. The lack of OPL is a major disadvantage as it may impair one's privacy decision-making abilities such as whether and how much personal data to disclose online. Despite its importance, OPL research is in its early stages. To pave the way to bridge this gap, we conducted a systematic review of 57 articles, offering a theoretical connection to privacy research. Our synthesis highlights how OPL is defined, measured, and its primary knowledge domains. Seven themes emerged, emphasizing OPL across age groups and revealing unexplored areas like the interplay between OPL, technology acceptance, and technostress. This exploration provides a roadmap for researchers to understand OPL implications and its role in privacy domains, guiding future research directions. Experts can leverage this thematic exploration to develop knowledge, skills, and effective privacy protection measures for individuals and institutions in the dynamic landscape of online privacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the relationship between Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and smart governance in smart cities, emphasising the importance of participation and responsiveness for effective governance. Focused on India, it evaluates global smart city governance models, comparing them with the Indian system. The study analyses the current governance structure and the potential of ICT to enhance participatory governance in smart cities. Despite challenges, including limited participation and responsiveness, ICT holds promise for improving governance. The study proposes a governance framework based on pluralist democracy, with ICT playing a central role in fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Despite obstacles like the digital divide, this model prioritises people and ICT within India's governance, offering insights relevant globally to democratic nations. It presents a new conceptualisation for smart city governance, applicable not only to India but also to democracies worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial discusses the responsible regulation of digital services in India, highlighting the country's growth in the IT industry and digital citizen services driven by government policies. It emphasizes the need for a balance between modernization and citizen choice in the use of digital services. The article also covers examples of digital public goods, Aadhaar identity platform, digital payments, and the digital divide in India, along with instances of digital enforcement like internet shutdowns. The authors advocate for responsible regulation that respects citizen choice and addresses the limitations users face in using digital services. [Extracted from the article]

This study explores the utilisation of e-government services by digitally vulnerable individuals in South Korea. The research questions focus on understanding the current status of e-government use among digitally vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income, the disabled, and multi-cultural families, the level of inclusivity of e-government services for them, and the policy implications for improving access to these services. Using data from the 2021 National E-government Survey (NES) in South Korea, the study found that only a small percentage of digitally vulnerable populations are aware of e-government services and that most web-based and app-based information transaction, financial transaction, e-participation, and social welfare services are not inclusive for age and income level. However, the study also revealed that most web-based and app-based e-government services examined, except e-business services, provide inclusive services to the disabled and multi-cultural families. The study concludes with recommendations for policy makers to improve inclusivity and access to e-government services for digitally vulnerable populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through a social justice lens, this article explores the growing digitalization of society that created ripe environments for a deepening digital divide that impacts access to the modern digital world for vulnerable populations in the European Union, Spain, and the United States. The COVID-19 pandemic response highlighted the need for and use of digital technology and skills, which brought the digital divide between the world’s regions, countries, and societies to the forefront. This digital divide is defined as the lack of access or adoption of high-speed internet/broadband services. As of 2016, the UN recognized the need to acknowledge internet access as a vehicle to reach other human rights, such as the right to work or access basic education. In today’s post-pandemic society, it has become more evident that the lack of access to the internet hinders access to information, services, and participation in the socio-political landscape. In social work higher education, the increase in the quality of eLearning and digitalization transformed the way teaching and learning happen and the perception of distance learning. Recommendations regarding including digital skills in every aspect of the social work curricula using a human rights framework are included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital finance provides new possible ways to promote innovation-driven development strategies. Using data of 257 prefecture-level cities in China from 2011 to 2019, this paper examines the impact of digital finance on regional innovation, as well as the mediating effect of resource mismatch underlies it. The empirical results are as follows. First, digital finance can significantly boost innovation, both in terms of the quantity and quality. Second, the incentive effects of innovation have been more obviously observed in the eastern cities and the cities with high financial levels or light digital divides in China. Third, the mechanism effect implies that digital finance works positively on innovation through improving the factor allocation efficiency by alleviating the misallocation of labour and capital. These conclusions indicate that to better promote regional innovation, it is crucial to encourage the digital transformation of the financial industry, enhance digital infrastructure development, and facilitate the free flow of resources among regions. The paper offers both theoretical and empirical evidence that digital finance influences regional innovation by alleviating resource mismatches. It also examines the role of the ‘digital divide’ in shaping innovation through digital finance. These two points constitute the key innovations of the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIn this systematic review on the educational digital divide, we examined 77 studies for publication trends, context, research methods, digital divide factors, dimensions and interventions using a multidimensional approach. This review identified factors such as socioeconomic status, gender, geography, age, ethnicity, parent knowledge/educational level, school type and second language influencing digital divide and found gender, geography, and socio-economic status were the most studied. Among multidimensional digital divide dimensions, utilization and access dimensions were most studied compared to cognitive and affective dimensions. Among 17 digital divide sub-dimensions examined, student use, internet access, and hardware access were the most studied. Interventions recommended in research for digital inclusion include providing technology resources; training, instruction and support for teachers, students and parents; and organizational practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With children's digital technology usage surging in post-pandemic Canada, it is imperative to understand children's digital literacy and multimodal practices. This study investigated potential predictors of children's digital literacy and multimodal practices at home, and the latent profiles of digital families. A sample of 413 parents of children aged 0–8 was recruited online and from daycare centres in Central Ontario to examine children's home digital environments, digital literacy, and multimodal practices. The findings indicated that (1) child age, home digital resources, and parent's beliefs regarding child digital technology use predicted increased digital literacy and multimodal practices. (2) Three profiles of digital families were identified: low-digital families (36.9%), moderate-digital families (51.2%), and high-digital families (11.9%). Our research sheds light on the digital landscape of Canadian families with young children and suggests financial status may not be the primary factor in identifying children who can benefit from initiatives supporting digital literacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Work education constitutes a unique element of early childhood education for Chinese young children. The COVID-19 pandemic and the associated school closures have forced children to study online, making work education almost impossible. This study aimed to examine the status quo and the profiles of early work education done by Chinese parents. 1564 Chinese parents with young children (aged 3–6 years) completed an online survey. Nine parents were interviewed. Findings indicated that: (1) parents scored the highest on resilience education, followed by responsibility and creativity; (2) three profiles of work education emerged: the least level, the medium level, the highest level; (3) there were significant effects of regions, household income, and educational levels; (4) the pandemic and digitalization rendered work education more intelligent, while also reducing children's work practice in the outdoor; and (5) parents raised concerns about early digital addiction. Implications for early childhood education are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The digital economy has recently emerged as a potent force for reorganizing resources and transforming the economic structure. Although the existence of the digital divide has been confirmed in various nations and regions, most existing research has only examined it at a single geographic scale, leaving out consideration of multiscale dynamics. To fill this gap, this work attempts to construct a multiscale dynamic analytic framework for the digital economy by combining the methods and models from urban geography and spatial statistics. First, the overall patterns that the digital economy presents are examined in the proposed framework. Additionally, the multiscale dynamics of the digital divide as well as the multiscale dynamics of the factors influencing the digital economy are investigated. Finally, we carried out an empirical analysis on 242 Chinese cities using the proposed framework, and the findings can aid in the government's creation of strategies for the growth of an urban digital economy, thereby reducing the digital divide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents recommendations for developing a legal framework for sharing benefits derived from mineral resources in the international seabed area. Establishing a legal regime that encompasses benefit sharing is of paramount importance for promoting the principle of a common heritage of mankind, for narrowing the technological gap that exists between developing and developed countries in the field of deep-sea mining, for safeguarding the rights and interests of developing countries, and for advancing global development. However, the international seabed management system is confronted with considerable challenges, including uncertainty regarding its contribution and redistribution mechanisms, the criteria for equitable distribution, and the initial distribution mechanism. These challenges have the potential to undermine the principle of a common heritage of mankind. To address these issues, it is imperative that the International Seabed Authority establish a robust legal regime for benefit-sharing without delay. To this end, a comprehensive approach is required, encompassing theoretical, institutional, and practical considerations, with the aim of enhancing the legal system governing the international seabed area. From a theoretical standpoint, the primary challenge lies in striking a balance between private and public interests in the initial distribution of benefits and addressing any subsequent distributional imbalances. Furthermore, it is imperative to prioritize environmental protection and sustainable resource management in the international seabed area. At the practical level, criteria for equitable sharing should be established, the order of distribution of benefits should be clarified, and a common heritage fund should be established. At the institutional level, it is necessary to establish a system of information transparency, implement the principle of intergenerational equity, and establish a standardized mechanism for stakeholder consultation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an era where digital competence is increasingly crucial, understanding the factors that influence successful learning outcomes, especially among older adults, is vital. This study investigates the impact of psychological motivation, perseverance, consistency of interest, and instructor interaction on cognitive problem-solving abilities, subsequently affecting digital competence and individual impact. Utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) on a sample of 459 older adults who have completed digital competence training, this research provides empirical insights into the learning process. Findings reveal that psychological motivation significantly influences cognitive problem-solving, which, in turn, enhances digital competence and personal achievement. Interestingly, while perseverance and interaction with instructors also positively impact problem-solving, consistency of interest does not show a significant effect. These results suggest the need for educational strategies that foster motivation and effective instructor-learner interaction to improve digital learning outcomes. The study underscores the importance of tailored digital education approaches for older adults, highlighting the role of motivational and cognitive factors in bridging digital divides and enhancing life quality through digital literacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the data of listed agriculture-affiliated companies with customer-supplier association information, we examine the diffusion effect of the digitalisation of listed agricultural companies on the digital transformation of agriculture-affiliated enterprises from the perspective of supply chain. We show that the supply chain diffusion effect of digitalisation mainly exists in ‘customer enterprises-suppliers enterprises’ and ‘leading enterprises-other enterprises’. And the digital transformation of agriculture-affiliated customer enterprises forces suppliers to respond to customer innovation demands, thereby improving the digitalisation level of suppliers, while leading agriculture-affiliated enterprises improve the digitisation level of other agriculture-affiliated enterprises in the supply chain network through knowledge flow. Additionally, the supply chain diffusion effect of digital transformation is stronger under the conditions of smaller ‘digital divide’, lower geographic distance, the downstream consumer end and more government support of agriculture-affiliated enterprises. We provide theoretical and practical implications for promoting the digitalisation of the entire agricultural chain and improving the scale effect of digitalisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital health covers a wide spectrum of applications of digital technologies in the healthcare field. As a new set of tools to support the health system in achieving its goals—improving access to care, quality of care, and system efficiency—digital health has significantly transformed the landscape of modern medicine and health care. This paper examines the role of digital health under Taiwan National Health Insurance, considering the profound impacts of digital health during the COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses specifically on big data management and analytics (MediCloud and My Health Bank/NHI Mobile Easy Access) and innovative service provision models (telemedicine). We discuss two imminent challenges that any health system is likely to encounter: digital trust and digital divide. For the digital divide, we assessed the use of telemedicine and its determinants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our study shows that high-income levels and the presence of chronic or severe illness were positively correlated with the use of telemedicine. This observation suggests that poor people who have poorer health status were most likely to suffer from unmet needs for telemedicine. Enhancing cybersecurity to safeguard confidentiality, and effective communications with the public are fundamental and essential steps to regaining public trust in the digital era. When calling for more investment in digital technology, policy makers should be mindful of the potential digital divide across the demographic and socioeconomic strata, and specific policies should be devised to provide support to target the socially disadvantaged group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the 'Digital Divide' concerning disparities in adopting information and communication technologies (ICTs) at the regional level in Türkiye. Acknowledging the multiscale dimension of the digital divide, two main research questions are addressed: (1) Is there a digital divide between regions in Türkiye? If so, (2) How does the digital divide affect the development disparities in Türkiye? The ICT Development Index (IDI) and Socio-Economic Development Index (SEDI) are utilized together to answer these questions. Results reveal a positive correlation between them and significant discrepancies between Türkiye's eastern and western regions. Remarkably, the digitalization gap is narrower than the socio-economic development gap. The findings suggest that while digital technologies have diffused rapidly in Türkiye, their socio-economic benefits have been absorbed more slowly. This study aims to contribute to the literature on the digital divide and information and communication technology for development (ICT4D) at the regional level, providing insights for policymakers to address regional digital inequalities in Türkiye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the challenges encountered by English language educators, during the COVID-19 pandemic, who taught the learners of state-government schools in Tamil Nadu, India. The language teachers encountered several difficulties as the learners had no exposure to the second language (L2) other than the traditional classroom environment. The potential government responses to the learning loss as a result of the pandemic were examined in the study. A qualitative research was carried out based on semi-structured interviews conducted with teachers from two districts in the state of Tamil Nadu. It examined the role of Television and WhatsApp as readily available pedagogical tools chosen by teachers to keep the learning process active in distance mode of education during the pandemic. It's effectiveness and limitations in educating the children were analysed in the study. The discussions revealed that the socioeconomic situations, the digital divide, lack of learner motivation and minimal parental support were the major concerns that needed to be addressed. The findings illustrated the importance of Mid-day-meals during the pandemic and its interdependence on the children's education. It also highlights the digital resources that were created by the government, after the pandemic to continue the teaching-learning process in hybrid mode. Through the findings of the study, the causes for limited success for the initiatives undertaken by the authorities were examined. The government's current efforts for the benefit of learners in the form of digital initiatives, to address the students' learning losses were studied. Furthermore, the results have implications towards the necessary measures needed to improve the hybrid mode of learning by bridging the existing digital divide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present era, digital literacy is becoming a necessity. The fast development of technologies and their appropriations is taking over our everyday lives. As such, there is a need to adopt and have prerequisite digital skills. In developing countries, especially in Africa, the advocacy of digital literacy is important if the digital divide gap has to be bridged. Therefore, it is imperative to share knowledge through various collaborations and partnerships by establishing appropriate strategies to explore the efficiency of enhancing digital literacy as a social and cultural capital that can reduce the gaps between societies. This paper reviews the significant position of collaboration and partnership in developing countries and how they can initiate and participate in the development of digital literacy. Besides, it explores the difference between digital literacy and its impact and how it changes users' behaviours. Furthermore, it tackles how collaborations and partnerships enhance digital literacy by creating new opportunities for sustaining digital literacy knowledge. This paper carefully reviews existing literature in order to identify common conflicts or tensions that undermine collaboration and exacerbate digital literacy disparities between developing and developed countries. This paper also provides recommendations on how to effectively implement digital literacy initiatives. Finally, the paper explores the important roles the library and other digital literacy collaboration facets play in the sustainability and development of a country's digital literacy society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Older adults are at a digital disadvantage because of social stereotypes and a lack of social support; however, smartphones have become a necessary technology to cope with crises and daily life in China, especially during the pandemic. This study aimed to help marginalized older adults take on new tasks by developing digital technology education that used a framework of social cognitive theory in social work. The study followed a quasi-experimental design in which 153 elderly people were recruited from three community service centers; 90 of the participants received 6-weekly intervention. Intent-to-treat analysis, effect size calculations, and sensitivity analysis were conducted. The findings show that digital education significantly enhanced two domains of digital life adaptation abilities: general digital life adaptation abilities [g =.50, 95% CI (.70, 2.69)] and pandemic digital life adaptation abilities [g =.89, 95% CI (.96, 2.07)]. The intervention also improved three domains of digital self-efficacy: sharing and communication [g =.55, 95% CI (.04,.48)], verification [g =.34, 95% CI (.01,.59)], and influencing others [g =.53, 95% CI (.13,.77)]. The study showed that the new intervention approach reduced the harm to vulnerable older adults in the digital wave, especially during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have examined older, elite users of digital technology use. To address this gap, we examined predictors of novel technology use among this group. As hypothesized, several markers of successful aging predicted greater technology use in older elite users, including higher levels of cognition, socioeconomics, and self-efficacy. Skills needed to engage with technology at a basic level differ slightly from those needed to reach higher levels. While prior research suggested that poor episodic long-term memory may pose a barrier to basic technology use, short-term memory may be more important at the upper end of the technology use spectrum. What this paper adds This study recruited older adults who are elite users of digital technology A technology use scale was created and validated to include the latest technology Higher technology use is linked to higher levels of cognition, socioeconomics, perceived usefulness, and self-efficacy Higher technology use is also linked to adopting the Internet at a younger age Applications of study findings We advocate that individuals should learn to use new technology as early as possible and continuously try out new technology throughout lifetime. Learning new things at an earlier age comes with the advantage of higher levels of fluid intelligence. Additionally, mentally stimulating activities, such as learning to use new technologies, may help lower the risk for cognitive decline, creating a virtuous cycle of cumulative advantage. Older adults are encouraged to take advantage of life-long learning opportunities (e.g. via local college, online classes – Coursera, YouTube), which can provide exposure and training with the latest technologies and help close the age-related gap in novel digital technology use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract\nPoints of interestThe COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of internet access across various aspects of life, from remote work and online education to healthcare services and social connections. As we transition to a post-pandemic era, a pressing need arises to update our understanding of the multifaceted nature of internet access. This study is one of the first attempts to do so. Using survey data from New Zealand adult internet users (n = 960), it compares internet connection types, frequency of internet use at home, social media use, and concerns about online risk between people with and without disabilities. Results show people with disabilities have restricted fibre access and higher wireless broadband (a much slower connection type). People with disabilities use social media platforms less and are more concerned about certain online risks. The findings highlight persistent disparities in internet access for people with disabilities in the post-pandemic era. Implications of the study are discussed.The study explores internet access and compares trends between people with and without disabilities from New Zealand in the aftermaths of the pandemic.Internet access is investigated in terms of its frequency of use at home, type of internet connection, frequency of social media use, and perceptions about the benefits of the internet as well as concerns related to online risks.The data indicate that inequities in internet access exist. A disability broadband divide has been identified, with disabled people having less access to faster internet connections than non-disabled people.There were significant differences in the frequency with which people with and without disabilities used the internet at home and used prominent social media sites. People with disabilities are also more concerned about internet threats like conspiracy theories and hate speech.The study explores internet access and compares trends between people with and without disabilities from New Zealand in the aftermaths of the pandemic.Internet access is investigated in terms of its frequency of use at home, type of internet connection, frequency of social media use, and perceptions about the benefits of the internet as well as concerns related to online risks.The data indicate that inequities in internet access exist. A disability broadband divide has been identified, with disabled people having less access to faster internet connections than non-disabled people.There were significant differences in the frequency with which people with and without disabilities used the internet at home and used prominent social media sites. People with disabilities are also more concerned about internet threats like conspiracy theories and hate speech. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on interviews with 118 women recently released from incarceration in the U.S. Midwest, this study examines changes in their online health information consumptions and evaluations throughout the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2022). Findings show that women transitioning from incarceration, who are often marginalized at the intersection of gender, socioeconomic status, and race, faced challenges navigating and assessing online health information during the pandemic. We use a feminist framework in analyzing online health information seeking and assessments among women recently released from incarceration while acknowledging intersectional marginality experienced by this population. Given the limited existing research on reentry programs focusing specifically on justice-involved women, our study contributes to developing and improving health and information literacy programs for this underserved and marginalized population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Governments around the world have paid considerable attention to Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D) initiatives. However, there is no clear evidence that current digitization strategies are meeting the expectations of inclusive and sustainable development. Based on panel data from Chinese prefecture-level cities, this paper constructs a quasi-natural experiment with the establishment of the National Comprehensive Big Data Pilot Zones (BDPZ) to examine whether and how big data-based digital policies can address the digital divide. The results show that the construction of the BDPZ significantly contributes to addressing the territorial digital divide. And this policy effect is influenced by factors such as regional innovation capacity, geographical location, and administrative authority. The mechanism analysis shows that the institution-led diffusion effect and administrative supply diffusion effect under the authoritative diffusion model, and the market-driven diffusion effect under the induced diffusion model are the intrinsic mechanisms of BDPZ in addressing the digital divide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social media has afforded its users more convenience than ever in accessing, sharing, and preserving information. However, one problematic outcome, digital hoarding, has become a phenomenon of concern nowadays in hedonic social media use. This study aims to investigate the causes of digital hoarding and how it is exacerbated in the hedonic social media context. We divide the digital hoarding of information into two dimensions (ie, accumulating and difficulty deleting) and draw on the conceptual lens of fear of missing out (FoMO) to understand separately the generative mechanism of these two dimensions in social media. In addition, we consider the causes of FoMO and the moderating effect of social media affordances (ie, the recommending affordance, and the content-sharing affordance) between FoMO and the two dimensions of digital hoarding. For this study, we collected 330 valid questionnaires and tested the hypotheses by partial least squares structural equation modeling. The results show that FoMO significantly positively affects accumulating and difficulty deleting. Furthermore, the recommending affordance positively moderated the influence of FoMO on difficulty deleting; the content-sharing affordance positively moderated the influence of FoMO on accumulating. In addition, information anxiety and attachment anxiety can strongly predict FoMO. Finally, we discuss the theoretical and practical implications of this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technology adoption is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. This qualitative study employed the grounded theory approach to evaluate the barriers to adopting information and communication technology (ICT) among older adults. The study population included all older adults referred to an adult day care center and Comprehensive Health Centers in Shiraz, Iran, from February 2022 to March 2023. Data collection was performed using semi-structured interviews, field notes, and observation. The data were analyzed using the Corbin and Strauss approach. The four main categories extracted were as follows: technology, cultural, social, and personal factors. A total of 13 subcategories were identified, including software characteristics, hardware characteristics, perceived complexity of work, dealing with cultural norms, lack of cyberspace culture, digital divide, ageism, elder abuse, poverty, hand weakness, declining sensory functions, age-related cognitive changes, and the psychological factors. The results found in the present study indicate that there are many barriers to ICT adoption among older adults. Increased awareness and knowledge among community members about the aging process could help reduce negative stereotypes among older adults during the adoption of ICT. Also, educating the community about the proper use of social networks can effectively reduce the harassment of older adults in this space. On the other hand, the results of this study can guide ICT designers in making devices that are more suitable for the needs of older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world can be divided into a digital sphere and a physical sphere. Within the realm of the physical sphere, Michael Walzer's Just War Theory stands as a prominent framework for understanding the ethics of warfare. Is his theoretical framework also applicable to the digital sphere? This article studies whether elements of Walzer's theory can be adapted to the context of digital conflict. Walzer divides countries into zones of peace, zones of war, and in-between zones. A country could then, for example, be a physical zone of peace but a digital zone of war. This article explores in which ways the defining characteristics of the different zones can be found in the digital sphere. It concludes that the digital sphere should mostly be seen as an in-between zone, with the problem of very unclear borders. Regarding Walzer's theory, while it offers valuable insights when applied to the digital sphere, difficulties arise, underscoring the necessity for further research to refine the principles of just war within the digital sphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapidly increasing number of older people, vehicle dependence in countries like the U.S. poses many challenges for transportation planning. Vehicle dependence among most Americans has substantial environmental, safety, and equity implications, and it excludes those with limited ability to drive from participating in many everyday social activities. Also, an age-based digital divide weakens the potential role of transportation technologies and information and communication technologies in reducing travel difficulties for older people. Nevertheless, current federal policies do not sufficiently address the transportation challenges facing an aging population. This paper provides an agenda for sustainable and equitable transportation in an aging society through various modes of transportation and enhanced interagency coordination and collaboration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]