The COVID-19 pandemic forever changed our relationship with our computers and the internet. Remote school, catching up with friends and relatives on Instagram and Zoom, or ordering home improvement supplies through online retailers became the new normal. However, despite our increased reliance on digital technology, communities across the state of Maryland are still struggling with access to reliable internet connection, a lack of affordable options and devices, as well as limited resources to master digital skills. Even as the crisis recedes, it has become obvious that using technology and having online access is an integral part of everyday living in the 21st century.
That is why University of Maryland Extension (UME), in collaboration with the University of Maryland College of Information Studies, developed a new set of cooperative resources to assist those communities in accessing digital services to help bridge that divide and increase digital literacy in the state.
“A 2021 report from the Abell Foundation shared that 520,000 Maryland households don’t have access to wireline broadband at home and 290,000 households don't have access to a desktop, laptop, or tablet device,” said Mega Subramaniam, professor and associate dean of faculty for the College of Information Studies and co-PI of the $6 million grant that was part of a larger $400 million statewide package to support the development and adaptation of a digital literacy curriculum in Maryland. “The digital divide affects Marylanders across the state, but disproportionately affects rural residents, low-income households, people of color, older adults, and residents of Baltimore City.
Moreover, once Marylanders have physical access to digital devices and the internet, having the necessary digital skills to navigate technology efficiently and safely is paramount.”
Maryland residents can now reach out to “Digital Navigators,” a team of experienced information technology specialists, using a toll-free hotline (1-866-206-8467), email (marylandersonline@umd.edu), or online by visiting the newly launched Marylanders Online website (marylandersonline.umd.edu). These tools are designed to provide help on a variety of tech-related questions including hardware, software, connectivity issues, and learning materials to hone new digital skills.
“This multi-pronged approach ensures that Marylanders can access the necessary resources and guidance at the pace and level they are comfortable with, and ensure they are able to develop the skills to navigate the digital world of work, education, leisure and civic participation,” said Isaias Tesfalidet, Digital Literacy project director.
Marylanders, regardless of skill level or available technology and devices, can use the hotline to get information on accessing devices, internet service and literacy programs from public providers like local libraries and community centers, as well as finding low-cost options for getting home access.
“We’re not problem-solvers for all technology issues, we’re here to connect people to the assistance they need,” said Vishnupriya Desai, program manager for the hotline service. Navigators can also assist with one-on-one troubleshooting, training on how to use applications for online retail, banking, social platforms, and much more.
The Marylanders Online website is a database of free self-paced tutorials and resources where people can go to learn and develop skills on their own. This growing knowledge bank also works in conjunction with the Digital Navigators hotline, with direct access to live help regarding the materials online and any other questions.
“We’re excited to be able to offer these services to the state,” said Dr. Jinhee Kim, associate dean of UME and principal investigator on the grant. “UME wants to meet community members at their comfort level, allowing them to further their education and information-gathering abilities through seamless broadband and digital literacy access.”
More resources are being added to the Marylanders Online website daily, and more Digital Navigators are joining the team to serve localized areas. The Marylanders Online team is also interested in identifying additional collaborators, including nonprofits and community organizations interested in working towards bridging the digital divide existing within the state.
“There are a lot of states doing digital equity work. This is something we can achieve in Maryland-we’re a small state, and our proximity to D.C. makes us one of those places that cannot be left behind in the race to digital equity,” Desai said. “Technology is not a luxury anymore. It’s a need-an essential need like food, water, or electricity. Digital equity is a service to humanity.”
Maryland residents can reach out to Digital Navigators or self-develop skills:
TOLL-FREE HOTLINE: 1-866-206-8467
E-MAIL: marylandersonline@umd.edu
VISIT: Marylanders Online Website: marylandersonline.umd.edu
by Laura Wormuth : Momentum Magazine Summer 2023