The Digital Divide: Immobility and Vulnerability of Marginalized Groups in Urban Areas in China

Authors

  • Bixuan Cheng

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61173/g6q15b71

Keywords:

Digital divides, urban marginalized groups, China

Abstract

The research report delves into the formation and impact paradigm of the digital divide in urban marginalized areas, with a particular attention of how digital divides affect the daily lives of urban marginalized groups. While existing analysis of digital divide in China have predominantly focus on differences between urban and rural areas or eastern and western area, this study centres its attention on the community of Junyuan, Qiaokou District, Wuhan, Hubei Province. Herein lies an research of how the digital divide generated and its ramifications for urban life within a community primarily inhabited by low-income residents, elderly individuals, and migrant workers. Survey results are compared with international research findings related to the digital divide. This comparison leads to a proposed influence paradigm tailored for urban fringe communities based on age and education level. Furthermore, a governance approach is recommended that places emphasis on cultivating user willingness and fostering trust in ICT technology as part of efforts to alleviate the adverse effects of the DD experienced by marginalized groups within cities.

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Published

2024-10-29