Importance of Community-based Training for Non-users

An interesting story emerges when those in the ‘near user’ subgroup who face training and affordability obstacles are examined. A study on recent and new users of computers and the Internet in a Toronto, Canada, neighbourhood demonstrates how a properly planned and resourced community access service can greatly contribute to overcoming technological illiteracy and affordability barriers.⁸ The study followed fifty-five recent and first time computer and Internet users at a public access site over a six-month period. This research also included a needs assessment study of residents in the immediate neighbourhood. Households in the area tended to be lower income, less educated and included a significant number of people for whom English is not the first language.

⁸ Report on Local Residents and the Internet, PIAC, November, 2000. The study was conducted by the Public Interest Advocacy Centre, EKOS Research Associates Inc., and Connectus Consulting, in collaboration with St. Christopher House.