Activity 8 -WLANs

WLANs
Where Are These Projects Mainly Located

These wireless hotspots are mainly located in small communities and cities. There are also many WLAN spots being developed in developing countries around the world.

Why Have These Been Created

The WLAN hotspots have been created in the developing world to allow them to gain access and training in using ICT. This will allow for better education in the use of ICT and therefore help close the divide that is the ‘Digital Divide’.

What Groups Do They Serve And In What Way

The groups that are served by the development of the WLAN are people who work away from the office and still require access to the internet. For example reporters who need to send articles into the office in time for them to go to print. Another group who will use the WLANs are students. Students who have no landline to access the internet through will be able to do research and other work over the wireless.

Have They, And/Or Will They Have, Any Impact On The Digital Divide

By starting projects in developing countries this will allow for the international digital divide to be closed slightly. But some improvement will need to be made. For example to improve the technology available to people in smaller communities in LEDCs. Another example would be improved training for people, here and aboard, to allow people who are using this technology to do so more effectively.