Assuming that our society is determined to bridge the digital divide, we must develop policies that tackle the issue as comprehensively as possible. To continue to proceed, we must better leverage literacy programs to interface with Internet-access programs and we must encourage the expansion of public interest Web content. (Author)

Education is playing an important role in the realization of our democratic ideals in this digital age. Educators need to be persuaded that the new technologies need to be embraced and utilized. Technology skills should be taught, but basic skills such as reading, writing and critical thinking are also more important than ever. (JM)